What is the Dark Web, Dark Side of the Internet: A Guide to the Dark Web
The dark web is an obscure part of the Internet that cannot be reached via traditional search engines and requires special tools to be accessible. It is one of many unindexed portions of the web; unlike its cousin the deep web which features benign content such as medical records or subscription-based platforms; in contrast to this benign content residing on the deep web, the dark web is full of illicit activities hidden away deliberately for greater anonymity.
Users looking to access the dark web must first install the Tor Browser. Tor encrypts traffic and routes it through various proxy servers to protect users’ online activities, making tracking their activity harder however it also may make browsing slow and unreliable.
The dark web provides a platform for illicit activities to flourish, including drug sales and weapons purchases as well as selling counterfeit goods and cybercrime-related malware/hacked data trade.
However, the dark web does have its uses – journalists and activists often turn to it when communicating anonymously and sharing sensitive data, and people living under oppressive regimes use it as a way to access blocked websites and content.
Overall, the dark web is an intricate web of many risks and opportunities that is rich with possibility. Being mindful of these dangers before venturing there may help safeguard both yourself and others against abuse of its power for harm or good.
What is the Dark Web
The dark web is a subset of the deep web, which encompasses all parts of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines. Unlike the deep web, which contains benign unindexed content like medical records or subscription-based platforms, the dark web is deliberately concealed and often hosts illicit activities. It’s a place where anonymity is the currency, and nefarious transactions are the trade of the day
The dark web, often confused with the deep web, is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software or authorization for access, differentiating it from the deep web, which is merely unindexed but not intentionally hidden.
The dark web is a secretive section of the internet not indexed by regular search engines, accessible only via specialized browsers like Tor. It harbors both legal and illegal activities. Legally, it facilitates privacy-centric communication, especially under oppressive regimes. However, it’s infamous for illegal trades such as drugs, weapons, and illicit data sales. While the dark web aids anonymity and free speech, it’s a double-edged sword with criminal elements taking advantage of the privacy it offers1.
What is Darknet and Dark Web
The darknet, also known as the dark web, is an encrypted section of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines, requiring specific configurations or authorization to access. While often portrayed as a hub for illegal activity due to the anonymity it provides, it also serves individuals and groups requiring privacy for legal, legitimate reasons such as political activism or secure communication.
Access to the darknet requires specialized software like Tor or I2P, ensuring user anonymity through a series of proxy servers that render IP addresses untraceable. Unlike the broader deep web, which encompasses all unindexed internet content, the darknet is a smaller, deliberately concealed segment known for hosting both lawful and unlawful activities.
Dark Web History
This journey from ARPANET to Freenet encapsulates the dark web’s history, illustrating the evolving quest for privacy and anonymous communication as integral to the dark web’s allure and existence.
Genesis: From ARPANET to Data Havens
The notion of a hidden, anonymous communication network, which is central to what the dark web represents, can be traced back to the 1960s with the advent of ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network). ARPANET, a pioneering computer network, was primarily conceived to facilitate long-distance information sharing without phone connections between each computer. Initially an academic venture, it soon found military applications during the Cold War era. The U.S. Defense Department’s arm, the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), envisioned it as a decentralized communication system resilient against network blackouts caused by enemy attacks. ARPANET’s structure later evolved, making communication between devices possible and setting the stage for the dark web’s emergence. The groundwork laid by ARPANET culminated in the split into MILNET for military use and a civilian version in 1983, which later morphed into the modern internet.
The 1980s: Privacy Concerns Give Rise to Data Havens
As the internet grew popular post its release around 1983, data storage became a concern. “Data havens” emerged as solutions, akin to tax havens, where data could be stored in countries with lenient laws to evade government scrutiny. This era marked a growing anxiety over online privacy, echoing the sentiments that would later drive individuals to the dark web.
The 1990s: The Dot-Com Bubble and Tor’s Inception
The 1990s, often dubbed the Internet boom era, witnessed a surge in online activity with the public release of the Internet in 1991. The decade also saw the beginning of illegal music streaming and the early developmental stages of Tor, a private internet browsing network pivotal to dark web access.
The New Millennium: Freenet and Beyond
The year 2000 heralded a significant milestone with the release of Freenet, a platform enabling anonymous file sharing, browsing, and publishing. Although Freenet didn’t achieve the popularity Tor did, it catalyzed the demand for anonymous internet access, paving the way for the dark web’s modern form. The core principle of “Onion Routing” that underpins Tor, enabling user anonymity, was developed and funded by the U.S. federal government in the mid-1990s.
Dark Web Browser
Dark web browsers are specialized tools designed to access the encrypted, anonymous part of the internet known as the dark web. The most notable of these is the Tor Browser, which routes your connection through a series of volunteer-operated servers, making it highly secure and private.
These browsers enable access to websites not indexed by traditional search engines, providing an avenue for anonymous communication and information sharing, often utilized for both legal and illegal activities. They serve as a gateway to the hidden, unregulated part of the internet, ensuring user anonymity and freedom from surveillance.
Top 5 dark web browsers in 2023
| Browser | Description |
| Tor | The pioneer of dark web browsing, Tor provides a secure and private way to access the dark web. It offers features like generating a new identity for enhanced anonymity and has three security settings to choose from depending on the user’s preference. |
| Whonix | Not just a browser, Whonix is an entire operating system that can anonymize all online activities. It directs all traffic through the Tor browser, ensuring a secure browsing experience. Whonix can be run as a virtual computer or via a USB stick and includes encryption applications and tools for added security. |
| TAILS | The Amnesic Incognito Live System (TAILS) is an open-source, live private operating system that can be run from a USB stick. It routes internet traffic and dark websites through the Tor browser and erases all data after shutdown for enhanced privacy. |
| Freenet | Freenet is a peer-to-peer platform for secure, private, and anonymous data storage and transmission. It has its own ecosystem of services including blogs, social media, and email, which are inaccessible through the open web. |
| ZeroNet | Similar to Freenet but distinct in providing web pages directly to users without central servers, hence decentralizing even domain names. This eliminates the need for hosting services and removes weak points that might compromise security. |
Each of these browsers has unique features catering to the needs of individuals seeking anonymity and privacy while navigating the dark web.
How Was The Dark Web Created
The creation of the dark web is deeply rooted in the desire for anonymous communication, primarily for government and military purposes. The underpinning technology of the dark web, known as Tor (The Onion Router), was developed by the U.S. government in the mid-1990s to enable spies to exchange information securely. It employs “onion routing” to ensure user anonymity by encapsulating messages in layers of encryption, akin to layers of an onion, which are decrypted at each network node en route to the final destination. This technology was initially aimed at protecting individuals within the intelligence community, allowing them to communicate without revealing their identities.
The conceptualization of the dark web as we know it began to take shape in 2000 with the introduction of Freenet, a decentralized system for information storage and retrieval created by Ian Clarke, a student from the University of Edinburgh. Freenet was designed to promote free speech and ensure privacy, laying down the foundational principles of the dark web.
The dark web’s development leaped forward in 2002 with the release of Tor, significantly enhancing the capacity for anonymous communication and setting the stage for the modern dark web. This release marked a pivotal moment, as Tor became a cornerstone for dark web browsing, allowing users to access the hidden, unindexed part of the internet securely. Its creation was a U.S. government initiative aimed at helping operatives remain untraceable, thereby significantly shaping the dark web’s landscape and making today’s dark web a reality.
Over time, the dark web transitioned from a government and military communication tool to a hub for both legal and illegal activities, serving a global user base seeking anonymity and freedom from surveillance.
How Dark Web Works
The dark web, also known as the darknet, operates on a network of encrypted sites that can only be accessed with a set of secure browsing tools like Tor, which stands for The Onion Router. Unlike the surface web, which is indexed by standard search engines, the dark web is intentionally hidden and requires a special browser for access.
The principal browser used to access the dark web is Tor, which routes a user’s connection through several volunteer-operated servers to obscure the user’s identity and location, thereby providing anonymity. Websites on the dark web have “.onion” domain extensions and are hosted on encrypted networks, which is why a conventional browser can’t access them. On the dark web, various goods and services, both legal and illegal, can be procured.
This includes items such as drugs, firearms, counterfeit money, and hacking software, among others. The encrypted and anonymous nature of the dark web makes it a space for activities that seek privacy from surveillance and tracking, but it also harbors illicit activities due to the same privacy features.
How To Access Dark Web
Accessing the dark web requires specific tools and procedures to ensure anonymity and security. Here’s how to access the dark web:
Download and Install Tor Browser:
- The primary step to accessing the dark web is to download the Tor browser from the official website and install it like any other application. Tor is a free browser based on Firefox that facilitates access to the dark web1.
- Ensure to download the Tor browser only from its official website for safety purposes.
Tor Network:
- The Tor network is a series of volunteer relays through which the user’s internet connection is routed. This network encrypts the connection and bounces the traffic between relays located worldwide, providing anonymity to the user.
Device Compatibility:
- The Tor browser is available for various platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, enabling access to the dark web on almost any device.
Through the Tor browser, users can access websites on the dark web that have a “.onion” domain extension, exploring the encrypted and anonymous part of the internet securely.
Dark Web Search Engine
Dark web search engines are tailored to access the network of .onion sites that form a part of the Tor network, which are not indexed by standard search engines. Here are some notable dark web search engines and their unique features, as per various sources:
Torch:
- One of the oldest and most known dark web search engines.
- Offers a large archive and does not restrict web pages.
- Might contain malicious content.
- Claims to have over 898,385 documents indexed.
Ahmia.fi:
- Designed to allow access to the dark web when used with the Tor browser.
- Provides a safer searching experience on the dark web and excludes illegal pornographic content.
- Accessible on the clearnet as well as the dark web.
DuckDuckGo (on the dark web):
- The biggest search engine on the dark web does not use trackers or collect personal data.
- Considered one of the best private search engines and is the default search engine on the Tor browser.
Phobos:
- Known for its simple, ad-free interface, and a substantial database to cater to most searches.
- Doesn’t show duplicate links and provides quick links for easy navigation.
Kilos:
- Dedicated to searching for drugs and drug marketplaces with over 122,811 listings and 7,782 vendors indexed.
- Advanced search filters to narrow down the search based on price range, cryptocurrencies for payment, and more.
OnionLand Search:
- Offers Google-like features including an “I’m feeling lucky” button, sponsored links, and cached webpage feature.
- Has a database showing nearly 6000 results for the keyword “Drugs”.
These search engines facilitate the exploration of the dark web, each with its unique features catering to different user needs and preferences.
games on the dark web
The dark web hosts a variety of games, some of which are unique to its obscured environment, while others are typically online games found on the surface web but are hosted on the dark web for a variety of reasons, possibly including the desire for anonymity by players or hosts. Here’s a description of some games and gaming platforms found on the dark web:
Horror-Puzzle Games:
- There are horror-meets-puzzle games like one where the goal is to find the “Red Room” in which a murder is taking place. Players need to solve mysteries and brainteasers while avoiding hackers and kidnappers.
- “Welcome to the Game” is a creepy horror/puzzle game that takes players into the world of the Deep Web to find a Red Room, an online service/website that allows viewing and participation in interactive torture and murder.
Dark Web Gaming Platforms:
- Several dark web links lead to platforms for playing various games, including casino games, betting games, and others.
- For instance, there are platforms for playing chess, football betting, Bitcoin games, casino games, Sonic and Tails games, and even a lottery game.
Betting and Fixed Matches:
- Some dark web platforms offer information about fixed football matches, providing 100% correct information for a fee, and allowing players to place winning bets.
Unique Dark Web Games:
- A unique game mentioned is “Sad Satan”, which is rumored to have originated from the dark web. This game has gained some notoriety and is discussed in various online communities.
Educational Aspect:
- Some view dark web games as learning opportunities, where players need to be vigilant to differentiate between the good and the bad, indicating a level of danger or potential exposure to cybercrime while gaming on the dark web.
Casino Games:
- Casino games are also popular on the dark web, with platforms offering a variety of games including poker, roulette, slots, and more.
These games and platforms reflect the diverse range of gaming experiences available on the dark web, each with its unique set of risks, rewards, and community engagements.
Dark Web Access
Accessing the dark web necessitates the use of specialized software and configurations, primarily through a specific browser known as Tor. The dark web exists on darknets, which are overlay networks on the internet that aren’t accessible through standard browsers or search engines. To enter this part of the internet, one needs to install the Tor browser, which is available for free from the official Tor Project website. The Tor browser is compatible with various operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, thereby providing a wide range of users the ability to access the dark web. Once the Tor browser is installed, it facilitates anonymous communication and business transactions on the dark web, ensuring the privacy of users by not revealing identifying information like the user’s location
Jobs on The Dark Web
Cybercrime-Related Jobs:
- These jobs cover domains such as malware development, phishing tools creation, website and email hacking, encryption cracking, and web scraping. They require individuals with specialized skills in these illegal activities.
- Cybercrime groups operate like businesses on the dark web, offering developers and hackers competitive salaries, paid time off, and other benefits.
- Common vacancies involve hacking websites or corporate databases, and engaging in these activities could lead to serious legal consequences.
Miscellaneous Dark Web Jobs:
- The role of a “dropper” is quite popular, which involves receiving money or goods and redirecting them to another dropper to conceal the identity of the recipient.
- Visual design professionals are in demand to improve the aesthetics of dark websites, which have historically been bare bones due to limited resources.
- Search engine specialists are needed to help navigate growing darknet sites, as conventional search engines do not index dark web content.
- Marketing professionals are sought after to promote darknet markets using clearnet platforms like YouTube while adhering to legal boundaries.
- Coding gurus, distinct from hackers, are needed to build and maintain secure, stable, and practical software for darknet sites.
Job Categories:
- Jobs on the dark web are primarily categorized into illegal ones, which may not always require formal employment, and others that demand specialized skills and expertise.
The dark web job market is an extension of its clandestine nature, providing opportunities for individuals with specific skills, while also posing significant legal and ethical challenges.
Login Dark Web
To log in to the dark web, one needs a special browser like Tor, and it’s advised to use a VPN for additional security. Users connect to the Tor network via a Bridge or a Relay.
A Bridge is used in countries with internet restrictions, while a Relay is a common connection method. Upon connecting to the Tor network through the Tor browser, users can access dark web pages by entering the URL into the browser.
It’s crucial to exercise caution as the dark web is unregulated, and engaging with it can pose serious risks.
How To Enter Dark Web In Tor
Entering the dark web requires a specific procedure to ensure anonymity and security, given its unregulated and often dangerous content. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enter the dark web using the Tor browser, collated from various sources:
- Download and Install Tor Browser: Download the Tor browser from the official website and complete the installation wizard process.
- Launch Tor Browser: Launch the Tor browser that you’ve installed. It sets up a secure connection to the Tor network, ensuring your anonymity online.
- Setting Location: It’s crucial to set the location right in the Tor browser to ensure your anonymity. You can choose the exit and entry nodes for your IP connection to mask your actual location.
- Accessing .onion Websites: Once connected to the Tor network, you can access dark web pages by entering their URLs in the Tor browser. Websites on the dark web usually end with the “.onion” extension. For instance, entering a .onion address into the address bar will take you to that particular dark web page.
- Searching on the Dark Web: Conventional search engines don’t work on the dark web. You may use specific dark web search engines like Grams or visit the HiddenWiki website which compiles a list of common websites on the dark web.
- Transaction on the Dark Web: Bitcoin is the most common currency used for transactions on the dark web due to its anonymity. Before trading, ensure you’re aware of the laws in your country regarding cryptocurrencies.
- Maintain Anonymity and Security: While accessing the dark web, it’s advisable to use additional security measures like VPN to protect yourself from prying eyes and ensure your anonymity.
This procedure ensures a systematic and secure approach to accessing the dark web while minimizing the risks involved. It’s crucial to exercise caution and be aware of the legal implications of your activities on the dark web.
How Does The Dark Web Look Like
The dark web, contrary to certain cinematic portrayals, visually resembles the surface web. For instance, the CIA has its own official Onion site on the dark web that provides resources and employment information, looking similar to its surface web counterpart. Similarly, DuckDuckGo, a search engine operating on the dark web, provides a user interface akin to other search engines, and Hidden Wallet, a platform for anonymous Bitcoin transactions, resembles conventional digital wallet interfaces. The major difference lies in the anonymity and privacy-focused features the dark web offers, not in its visual appearance.