As you learn about cybersecurity, you will come across an entity known as the dark web. The dark web is a subset of the deep web, which is the part of the internet that can’t be accessed through search engines like Google or Bing. Much of the illegal activity that takes place on the internet happens on the dark web because it is private and is accessed anonymously through a special type of web browser that is impossible for most IT professionals to trace.
How the Dark Web Works
A special browser, such as Tor, and a VPN can be used to access the dark web. Tor is meant to keep its users’ identities anonymous by bouncing communications off many random locations so that it can’t be traced. Although authorities have cracked Tor at least once, it is still the most private way to connect to the internet.
While many people use Tor out of concerns about their privacy being breached while on the internet, it is also a haven for criminal activity because it is so difficult, if not impossible, to trace. Child pornography, illegal drugs, and terrorist activity are all found on the dark web along with other illegal activities.
Are You In Danger on the Dark Web?
While most of the activity accessed through Tor is not illegal, the dark web does have many criminals using it for illegal purposes. Even if you don’t access the dark web to pursue anything illegal, you may run into criminals there and get caught up in something you never intended to be involved with.
Like hanging out in a mob restaurant, you may find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time and get caught in the crossfire. If authorities do end up catching cybercriminals in the act, you could end up drawn into the investigation if they can prove you had contact with them. Some authorities may even consider you guilty just for associating with cybercriminals on the dark web even if you haven’t done anything wrong yourself.
Hackers often frequent the dark web to share information and sell malicious software to others.
The Dangers of Malware and Ransomware
Another danger of the dark web is malware and ransomware—most malware is transmitted over the dark web and then used on public access websites, so being on the dark web can put you in danger of coming into contact with malware or ransomware that can cripple your business or even steal your identity.
Malware is the main danger of the dark web for those that don’t frequent it, such as business users, since malware accessed on the dark web can be used to target any business or individual. Training in cybersecurity methods and principles is the best way to help businesses combat the effects of the dark web.
PC AGE offers courses that teach cybersecurity skills and allow IT professionals to earn certifications that can demonstrate their skills to businesses that need expertise. Request info on all the courses PC AGE offers, including those in cybersecurity and ethical hacking.