The dark web is a hidden, unindexed part of the internet that can be accessed only through specialized software such as Tor. While it’s known for hosting illegal activities, it's also a space for privacy-conscious individuals and those in restrictive environments. Here’s a closer look at what people commonly access on the dark web, along with some examples:
1. Illegal Drugs
One of the most well-known and heavily trafficked markets on the dark web is the sale of illegal drugs. Buyers and sellers are able to communicate anonymously and use cryptocurrencies to hide their identities.
- Silk Road: One of the earliest and most infamous dark web marketplaces, Silk Road was shut down by the FBI in 2013. It allowed users to buy everything from marijuana to prescription opioids and other illicit drugs.
- AlphaBay: Another dark web marketplace that was taken down in 2017, AlphaBay was known for drug trafficking, along with illegal weapons and hacking tools.
2. Stolen Data and Personal Information
Cybercriminals often use the dark web to buy and sell stolen personal information, including credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, and login credentials.
- Carding Forums: Websites like Dream Market (before it was taken down) and UniCC were dark web forums where users could buy stolen credit card details and other personal information.
- Data Dumps: Hackers often post large dumps of stolen data on the dark web. For example, the "Equifax Breach Data" (which included sensitive information from over 147 million individuals) was made available for purchase on dark web marketplaces after the hack.
3. Fake and Counterfeit Documents
People often turn to the dark web to purchase counterfeit documents, including fake IDs, passports, and driver’s licenses.
- Fake IDs: Marketplaces on the dark web sell fake IDs, such as a fake U.S. passport or driver’s license, which can be used for fraudulent purposes, including accessing restricted areas or bypassing age restrictions.
- Document Forgery Services: Some dark web sellers offer document forgery services, where they will create counterfeit passports, birth certificates, or social security cards based on buyer specifications.
4. Hacking Services and Malware
The dark web is a hub for cybercriminals who sell hacking tools, malware, and even hacking services. These tools are used to infiltrate personal devices, networks, or to steal data.
- RAT (Remote Access Trojan): Malware like NjRAT is sold on dark web marketplaces, allowing cybercriminals to remotely control infected devices, steal information, and monitor users.
- Hacking Services: Forums such as The Hub offer individuals services like DDoS attacks (to take down websites) or "hacker-for-hire" services, where users can hire hackers to target someone’s personal accounts or data.
5. Weapons and Firearms
While the sale of firearms is illegal in most countries, the dark web facilitates the buying and selling of firearms, ammunition, and other weapons, often with no background checks or identification required.
- Gun Sales: Websites such as The Armory offered firearms for sale to anyone willing to pay in cryptocurrency. These include handguns, rifles, and even unregistered firearms.
- Explosives: Some dark web vendors offer illegal explosive materials, including bombs and other dangerous items.
6. Human Trafficking and Exploitative Content
Unfortunately, the dark web is often used by criminal organizations involved in human trafficking and the sharing of exploitative material.
- Child Exploitation Rings: One of the most disturbing aspects of the dark web is the existence of child exploitation material. Websites like The PlayPen were notorious for sharing illegal and harmful content. Law enforcement has cracked down on such sites, but they occasionally emerge in hidden corners of the dark web.
- Human Trafficking: Organized crime groups also use the dark web to advertise human trafficking services, where people can illegally purchase trafficked individuals for forced labor or exploitation.
7. Illegal Pornography
Certain types of illegal pornography, such as child exploitation and non-consensual content, can be found on the dark web. These sites operate in secrecy, making it difficult for law enforcement to track down the offenders.
- Bestmobs and Red Rooms: While these sites are often rumors or hoaxes, there have been instances where certain hidden sites on the dark web offered streaming services of illegal or non-consensual adult content. Such sites are illegal and monitored by law enforcement, which works to shut them down as soon as they are discovered.
8. Unregulated Marketplaces and Unlicensed Goods
Some users access the dark web to purchase goods that aren't necessarily illegal but are unregulated. This can include everything from counterfeit luxury items to pirated software.
- Pirated Software: Marketplaces like AlphaBay were known for offering illegal downloads of pirated software, such as cracked versions of popular programs like Adobe Photoshop or Microsoft Office.
- Counterfeit Luxury Items: Dark web vendors also sell counterfeit goods like fake designer bags, watches, or shoes, allowing consumers to purchase luxury items at a fraction of the price.
9. Private and Secure Communications
Many individuals use the dark web to communicate securely, especially those living in oppressive regimes or dangerous environments. Encrypted messaging services provide a safe space for confidential communication.
- ProtonMail: This encrypted email service can be accessed via the dark web, providing users with a secure means of communication. It's commonly used by journalists, whistleblowers, and activists in authoritarian countries.
- Signal: Signal, an encrypted messaging app, allows for private communication and is often recommended by privacy experts, including those on the dark web.
10. Cryptocurrency Exchange and Financial Services
Cryptocurrency plays a major role on the dark web, both for legitimate and illicit transactions. Dark web users often exchange cryptocurrency or use crypto-related services for anonymous transactions.
- Bitcoin and Monero: These cryptocurrencies are popular on the dark web because of their ability to provide anonymity. Monero is particularly favored for its enhanced privacy features.
- Mixer Services: Dark web services like CoinJoin and Wasabi Wallet offer "mixing" services that help obfuscate the source of cryptocurrency transactions, making it difficult for law enforcement to track the flow of illicit funds.