The Ultimate Guide to Dark Web Threat Intelligence

The dark web is often shrouded in mystery, with countless stories and theories highlighting its dangers and the illicit activities that take place there. Despite the sensationalised narratives, there’s a true need for dark web threat intelligence that remains unclear to many.

A 2015 study by researchers Daniel Moore and Thomas Rid from King’s College London shed light on the dark web’s darker side. By analysing 2,723 live dark web sites, they uncovered a disturbing reality: a staggering 57 percent of these sites hosted illicit content. This alarming statistic (nearly a decade old) underscores the serious threats posed by the dark web. Given the rapid evolution of technology and the increasing sophistication of cybercrime, it’s likely that the prevalence of illegal activities on the dark web has only grown since then. 

In this article, we will examine the inner workings of the dark web, explore its various facets, and underscore why it is a significant threat to individuals and society. 

What is the dark web? 

Also known as the dark net, the dark web is a hidden part of the internet where users can anonymously access encrypted websites. Unlike regular websites, these sites aren’t indexed by search engines like Google or Bing. To access the dark web, you need a private browser like the TOR Browser and often a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to mask your online activity. This makes it a place where people can hide their identity and location, leading to both good and bad uses.   

Tor is a privacy-focused, open-source browser designed to provide anonymity and confidentiality. It achieves this by sending messages through a series of connected Tor relays. As messages travel from one node, or computer within the network, to another, they are encrypted. This means that each relay is only aware of the sender and the intended recipient of the message. 

The dark web differs from the surface web, or open web, in its lack of regulation and oversight. Unlike standard websites, dark web sites aren’t governed by specific regulations or content policies. Additionally, standard web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Opera like Chrome, Firefox, Opera often flag dark web pages as unsafe and refuse to open them, as they are designed to protect users from potential harm. In contrast, the surface web, which includes this article, is freely accessible to anyone with an internet connection and a web browser. 

A glimpse inside the dark web 

The dark web is often associated with illicit activities. While it can be a tool for legitimate purposes, it’s predominantly known for its darker side. Here’s a breakdown of what you might encounter:    

• The dark web is hidden online market where illegal goods like drugs, weapons, and fake IDs are bought and sold. To keep their identities secret, buyers and sellers often use cryptocurrencies for these transactions. 

• Another big problem is the theft and sale of personal information, like credit card numbers, passwords, and medical records. This stolen data is used for identity theft and fraud. 

• Hackers also use the dark web to buy and sell malicious software called malware. This software can steal data, take control of computers, or launch large-scale cyberattacks.  

• Many websites on the dark web are run by scammers who frequently change their locations to avoid getting caught. Even websites that have been around for a while can suddenly disappear if the owners decide to steal the money they’re holding for customers and run away.  

• The dark web also hosts a vast amount of content inaccessible through traditional search engines. It’s a repository for banned books and censored information on sensitive topics. It also houses underground forums where people can discuss topics freely, without fear of censorship or surveillance. 

The positive side 

Despite its negative aspects, the dark web is a valuable platform for legitimate purposes. It offers tools to fight censorship and safeguard individuals from persecution based on their beliefs or actions. Journalists and whistleblowers utilise the dark web to share important messages and access or disseminate sensitive information. By posting on the dark web, they can maintain their anonymity and protect themselves from those they seek to expose. The dark web hosts various whistleblower sites, such as a version of Wikileaks. Even Facebook even operates on the dark web, allowing users access to the site in restricted countries like China. By using Tor, users can bypass censorship and browse Facebook anonymously. 

Law enforcement and cybersecurity experts also use the dark web to gather information about cyberattacks, data breaches, and scams. This helps them understand the threats and develop ways to protect people and organisations. 

Decoding the legal aspect of dark web threat intelligence

The legality of using the dark web depends on the specific activities and the country’s laws. While using dark web browsers like the Tor browser isn’t illegal in many places, the reason for using it can be. For instance, simply browsing the dark web is legal, but downloading pirated content isn’t. Similarly, accessing information is legal, but accessing classified information is illegal. Using the dark web for illegal activities like accessing child pornography or buying drugs and guns is also illegal. 

While the dark web is designed to provide anonymity, it’s not entirely untraceable. Dark web addresses typically end in .onion domain, not .com, .org, or .edu, distinguishing them from regular internet addresses. Additionally, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can often detect connections to the Tor network, potentially raising concerns from authorities. 

Distilled 

We hope this guide has been helpful in shedding light on the dark web and its threats. Awareness is the first step in protecting yourself in this digital age, so stay informed and take proactive measures to ensure your online safety. Additionally, consider using a dark web monitoring tool. These tools continuously scan the dark web for any signs of your personal information being sold or shared. By providing alerts when your data is compromised, they empower you to take the necessary steps to safeguard your identity and personal information.