What is the Dark Web?
Q: I’ve heard of the dark web, but I never understood what this term means. What is the dark web? How is it accessed? Is there any way to keep my information out of its depths?
A: The dark web is the deepest layer of the internet that isn’t visible to the average browser. Unfortunately, its name is a perfect description of its function, as the dark web is full of illegal activities and crimes. Let’s take a closer look at the dark web and how you can protect your information from being caught in its trap. What is the dark web? The internet has been likened to an iceberg. There is very little of it that is truly visible above the surface, but it is enormous, dark and deep underneath. There are three basic components of the internet: Despite its name, not all of the activity that takes place on the dark web is illegal. The deepest part of the internet also provides a platform for communication and commerce among people living in countries that have heavy censorship over online activity. In addition, the dark web was originally used by the United States Department of Defense to communicate anonymously. Unfortunately, though, the dark web remains a hotbed of criminal activity. Loads of illegal trade takes place through the dark web, including drugs, firearms, counterfeit money, subscription credentials and personal information of thousands of targets. The inherent anonymity of the dark web allows hackers and scammers to roam free without fear of being caught. How does the dark web work? The dark web, and by extension the Tor browser, uses a technology known as “onion routing.” This technology uses multiple layers of encryption and redirection to assure anonymity for every browser. When a browser tries to access a site on the dark web, its information will be routed through thousands of relay points, making it impossible to identify and trace. How can I protect myself from the dark web? It’s important to take preventative measures to protect your information from the dark web. Here’s how: The dark web is fraught with danger and impossible to trace but there are ways to protect your information. Use the tips outlined here to stay safe.