In many aspects, the dark web isn’t that different from the surface web. The surface web is usually considered a safer option. But the fact of the matter is that if you are not careful on the surface web then even then you can get into trouble. You can still get exposed to scams on the surface web if you are not careful.
As the surface web has its negative, there are also some positive aspects of the dark web. It is considered as the more dangerous of the two but once you learn more about the dark web you will see that it offers some very positive points for people who are genuinely looking to use it for good purposes.
Depending on how you use it, the dark web can be a very dangerous place or it can be a great platform for you. So here are some of the positive and negative points of the dark web in 2024.
Positives of Using the Dark Web
Let us look at some of the positives of using the dark web.
User Anonymity
One thing that internet users have become very careful about in the modern day is how their data is used. There are companies like Meta that have been accused of selling user data to third-party sites. With tech giants being involved in such activities one can only assume what other small companies have been doing with user data.
Over the past few years, it has become a big concern and users all over the world try their best to somehow protect their data. This is why many users browse the web after turning on VPN software. If a company steals your data, that is a crime in itself but if they sell it to other people like scammers and hackers then that can be very damaging for you and even for your family members.
The dark net provides that much-needed veil for your user data. You don’t have to provide your information on the dark web links and you can still carry out a lot of different activities like communicating with your friends and even buying items of general use. There is even a dark net version of Facebook if you are looking for some anonymous socializing. You can buy any product and make the payment on the dark net through cryptocurrencies which are also decentralized. So there is no way of knowing that it was you who bought the item.
One thing that every dark net user should know is that while it is true that the dark net offers a layer of strong anonymity and privacy, it still doesn’t make you 100% anonymous.
Access to Rare Material
Another great thing about the dark net is that you can get access to rare material including books, art, media, and documents amongst other things. There have been instances in the past where art was stolen and then it was seen being sold on the dark net. However, there are many genuine rare items on the dark net as well.
This does not mean that you can’t find other items of general use on the dark net. There are bookstores on the dark net where you can find books that are generally available on the surface web. In addition to finding a lot of the same material that you would find on the surface web, you can also find rare items that you might not find on the surface web.
This does not mean that the item being sold on the dark net is illegal. The number of buyers on the dark net is smaller than the number on the surface web. This means that material that may sell out on the surface web or physical stores might still be available on the dark net.
So if you are looking for a book that is selling like hotcakes off the shelf. Then there is a huge chance you would find it on the dark net even if your local bookstore tells you that they are all sold out.
Untraceable Services
We talked about how internet users are concerned about their data and that the dark net offers a great place for them to communicate and transact anonymously.
When people hear the word untraceable services, they think of something negative. However untraceable services aren’t just a tool for criminals. It can be good for people who are looking to hide away from a dangerous criminal or hacker. It can also be good for people who are trying to fight oppression.
On the dark net, you can buy services by not just being anonymous but also untraceable. No one would be able to know where you live or who you are. These services are great for people who want to be off the grid to some extent and who don’t want to use the surface web at all. Looking to read the news, well just visit the BBC dark net site, if you want to send someone a mail, do it through Proton Mail on the dark net.
Freedom of Expression
One element of the dark net that is used for both negative and positive purposes is freedom of expression. As there is no regulation or oversight you would find some of the craziest things being written on forums on the dark net. However, it also gives a platform to oppressed voices living under dictatorships or facing persecution.
The dark web links are considered a haven for such people. It not only allows them to exercise their freedom of speech but it also gives them access to information without fear of retribution or censorship. Imagine being in a country where the government propaganda controls the media narrative and is extremely strict towards any antigovernment remarks on social media. People would be scared to speak their minds in such environments. So if someone wants to stand against oppression they can’t do it if they are unable to get the masses behind them. So to educate the masses to fight against tyranny, the dark web can be used as a great tool of freedom of expression.
Talking about freedom of speech the dark web offers secure communication for activists and journalists. Human rights activists, journalists, and others working in high-risk environments can use the dark net to communicate securely and protect their sources and sensitive information.
Members of marginalized or persecuted groups, such as LGBTQ+ individuals, can also use the dark net to connect and communicate safely, without fear of discrimination or persecution.
Whistleblowing and leaks
This positive element of the dark web has already yielded a lot of fruits for the authorities. Large companies and oppressive governments have a lot to hide from the world. Before the dark net, it was very difficult to expose all of that because of the fear of persecution however the dark web has made things better.
The anonymity offered by the dark web links can enable whistleblowers to expose wrongdoing, corruption, or unethical practices within organizations or governments without putting themselves at risk.
Over the past few years, certain platforms have been introduced on the dark net that aid in whistleblowing activities. One of those services is Secure Drop where the whistleblower can anonymously share documented proof of corruption or any other wrongdoing for the investigative journalists.
One example of how effective the dark net is in such a scenario is WikiLeaks where Julian Assange gathered a lot of information through whistleblowers on the dark net.
Research and academic purposes
The dark net is a great place for academics. You can get access to books stores and libraries on the dark net which have a collection of hundreds of different books. Not only that, you can also get your hands on rare research material that you may not be able to find on the surface web.
Researchers and academics can also use the dark net to study various aspects of cybercrime, online markets, and anonymous communication networks. Contributing to our understanding of these phenomena and developing countermeasures.
Businesses
Like individuals, many businesses in the world are conscious of their privacy. These businesses use the dark net to protect their intellectual property, trade secrets, or sensitive communications from potential threats or surveillance. This does not mean that these businesses are involved in something illegal. It just means that they want to play it safe when it comes to privacy. There is a lot of competition in the business world and some businesses can do anything to get rid of their competition even if it means playing dirty. Businesses can protect themselves from such dangerous competitors by being more privacy-conscious with the help of the dark net.
Circumventing Internet Censorship
One of the ways that authoritarian governments stay in power for so long is that they control the narrative and oppress the general population. This can be easily done by blocking the country’s internet. One of the prime examples of such a country is North Korea where people only get to see propaganda material on the TV and in newspapers. The only websites that people can browse in North Korea are the ones that the government allows.
In countries with strict internet censorship, the dark net can provide access to information and resources that are otherwise blocked or restricted. The purpose of having websites like Pro Publica and BBC on the dark net is for the citizens of such countries to get access to real information. And not just propaganda being forced on them by their government.
Negatives of Using the Darknet
It’s important to note that while there are positive uses of the dark net. The anonymity and lack of regulation also create opportunities for illegal and unethical activities. Striking a balance between preserving privacy and security. Minimizing the negative aspects of the dark net remains a challenge for law enforcement and policymakers.
Let’s take a look at some of the negatives of using the dark net.
Lack of Regulations and Accountability
This is the basic reason that criminals of all sorts make their way to the dark net to carry out their illegal and unethical activities. There are no regulations and no accountability on the dark net. In the past few years, the authorities have been trying their best to counter illegal activities on the dark net. But it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the lack of regulations and accountability has created an environment of ‘anything goes’.
For years there have been discussions about how the government can regulate the dark web. There are two big hurdles in regulating the dark web. The first one is the high level of anonymity and the second one is that it is an ever-changing platform.
When authorities do bring some important regulations, the criminals on the dark web find a way around it. For example, the US-based forums on the dark web are constantly being closed down by the US authorities. However, now dark web users have started to use forums based in China where the US jurisdiction does not apply.
This is also the reason that many people are scammed on the dark web links when they buy anything because there is no accountability. You cannot raise a query with the customer support team. The way the dark web works, it seems impossible to regulate the dark web completely. However, what the governments can do is that they can continuously try to update their counter technology as well.
Spread of Conspiracy Theories
The dark net, with its anonymity and lack of moderation, has become a breeding ground for various conspiracy theories covering a wide range of topics. From government cover-ups and secret societies to extraterrestrial life and global conspiracies. The dark net allows these unsubstantiated claims to proliferate unchecked.
The anonymous nature of the platform enables conspiracy theorists to freely share and reinforce their beliefs without facing criticism or fact-checking. Creating echo chambers where individuals can validate each other’s ideas and potentially become further entrenched in their beliefs. Many of these conspiracy theories are often supported by pseudoscientific claims or fabricated “evidence” that can be easily disseminated without scrutiny.
Additionally, some extremist groups leverage the dark net to actively recruit new members by promoting conspiracy theories. That aligns with their ideologies, potentially leading to radicalization. A common theme among these theories is the distrust of government agencies, mainstream media, and other authoritative sources. Making it easier for individuals to dismiss factual information and embrace unsubstantiated claims.
Conspiracy theories are not limited to the dark net and can be found across various online and offline platforms. The anonymity and lack of moderation on the dark net contribute significantly to the amplification and reinforcement of these beliefs.
Pornographic Material
One of the worst things about the dark net is underage pornographic material. Governments all over the world are trying their best to fight against child abuse and child exploitation but the dark net’s anonymity has made it an ideal place for such bad things. The worst thing about all of this is that there is demand for such things on the dark net. The authorities have been very heroic in their efforts to save and protect children. Some officers go undercover on the dark net to lure predators and then arrest them.
Malware
The dark net has become a thriving marketplace for malicious software, commonly known as malware. Dedicated marketplaces exist on the dark net. Where malware developers and cybercriminals openly trade and sell various forms of malicious code. Ranging from ransomware and trojans to keyloggers and other nefarious programs. Beyond mere distribution, the dark net has given rise to the malware creation and sale services. Allowing even novice cybercriminals to purchase malware from skilled developers, lowering the technical barriers to carrying out malware attacks. The rise of artificial intelligence has also aided criminals in this.
The dark net also facilitates the sale of programs designed to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, paving the way for malware delivery. Cybercriminals can even acquire customized malware or hacking services tailored to specific targets, such as businesses, governments, or individuals.
The dark net gives these cybercriminals a chance to operate with impunity without being identified. In addition to the sale and purchase of malware, your device can also get infected by malware if you visit shady dark web sites.
While malware threats exist across various online platforms, the dark net’s anonymity makes it particularly attractive for cybercriminals.
Sale And Purchase Of Stolen Data On The Darknet
Many people use the dark net to protect their data. However, it is also true that many websites on the surface web gather your data and sell it to third parties for research. However one can only assume that the data is used for research. We can’t say for sure that the data was not compromised. In addition to websites selling your data, there are also hacking attacks happening every day. Where hackers try their best to steal information from individuals as well as companies.
The dark net has become a thriving marketplace for the sale and purchase of stolen data, enabling cybercriminals to profit from their malicious activities. You can find dedicated marketplaces and forums. Where hackers can buy, sell, and exchange data, including personal information, financial records, login credentials, and proprietary corporate data.
Stolen data is often sold on its nature and origin, catering to the specific needs of various criminal enterprises. Such as identity theft, financial fraud, or corporate espionage. The worst part about all this is that it isn’t just a small part of the dark net economy. It is one of the most lucrative services on the dark net. The massive size of the market is a clear indication that any information you share on the web is vulnerable and you should try your best to protect yourself and not share sensitive information on the internet.
Darknet Money Laundering Safe Haven
Gone are the days when people used to fill secret compartments of their suitcases with money or register offshore companies to transfer black money from one place to another. The dark net has provided a new way for criminals to launder money.
One common method involves the use of cryptocurrencies. Which offers anonymity and decentralization, making it easier to have no trail of the transactions. It is easy to use cryptocurrencies on the dark net. Criminals can convert their black money into cryptocurrencies. And then utilize crypto mixing services or tumblers on the dark net to further obscure the source of the funds by mixing them with others.
The dark net has vendors offering comprehensive money laundering services. Including the creation of shell companies, offshore bank accounts, and fake documentation to legitimize the origin of funds.
As authorities enhance their efforts to combat money laundering. The dark net continues to evolve, providing new avenues for cybercriminals to turn their illegal profits into white money.
Range Of Different Hacking Services On The Darknet
On the dark net, you can find skilled hackers and cybercriminals openly advertising. And selling their services, ranging from DDoS attacks to sophisticated targeted hacking campaigns.
Criminals can buy tailored hacking tools and services. Often targeting high-value targets such as corporations, financial institutions, and in some cases government agencies. The dark net hosts markets for the sale of stolen data, including login credentials, proprietary information, and personally identifiable data, enabling further exploitation by malicious actors.
Many people hire hackers on the dark net to hack into other people’s social media platforms as a result of personal enmity. In addition to online platforms, there are also hackers on the dark net. That can hack into your mobile and computer devices which can be very damaging for the victim.
Government Monitoring
As the access of dark net has become easier in the past few years more and more people have started making their way to the dark net. However, this has also compelled law enforcement agencies to increase their activities on the dark net. One of the negative aspects of the dark net is that even though there is high anonymity on the dark net. There is also a lot of government monitoring. Undercover officers are working on the dark net and try to lure in dark net users to arrest them. So if you are browsing the dark net even for legitimate reasons. If the government finds out that you are using the dark net then this can land you in a lot of trouble.
Terrorist Activities On The Darknet
The dark net has become a breeding ground for various illegal activities, including terrorist activities. While the dark net was initially designed for privacy and anonymity. It has been exploited by extremist groups and individuals for their malicious purposes.
Terrorist organizations have utilized the dark net as a platform to recruit new members, disseminate propaganda materials, and coordinate attacks. They often use encrypted communication channels and hidden forums to evade detection by law enforcement agencies. These groups exploit the anonymity provided by the dark net to plan and execute their terrorist acts without fear of repercussions.
The dark net has also become a hub for the sale of illegal weapons, explosives, and other materials that can be used in terrorist attacks. Extremist groups can easily purchase these items from underground marketplaces. Making it easier for them to acquire the necessary resources to carry out their destructive plans.
We have already talked about money laundering and that is also helpful to terrorists. Terrorist financing is a significant concern on the dark net. Cryptocurrency transactions, which are difficult to trace, have become a preferred method for extremist groups to transfer funds and finance their operations. This anonymous funding source has made it challenging for authorities to disrupt the financial networks supporting these organizations.
While the dark net presents significant challenges in combating terrorist activities, law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts are continuously working to develop advanced techniques to monitor and disrupt their networks. However, the ever-evolving nature of the dark net poses an ongoing threat. That requires constant international cooperation to mitigate the risks associated with terrorism on the dark net.
Sale And Purchase Of Weapons
The illegal sale and purchase of weapons by unlicensed individuals pose a grave threat to public safety and security. The dark net enables criminals, felons, and those prohibited from firearm ownership to acquire weapons through unregulated channels. Bypassing legal requirements and background checks.
The consequences can be severe. These illegally obtained guns may end up being used in violent crimes, robberies, gang conflicts, and even acts of terrorism. Without proper documentation, tracing these weapons becomes extremely difficult, hampering law enforcement investigations.
Human Trafficking On The Dark Net
Human trafficking is one of the worst forms of criminal activities that are facilitated by the dark web.
The dark net’s encrypted anonymity networks provide cover for traffickers to carry out their activities. Human trafficking is done predominantly for sexual exploitation and forced labor. Research shows that the traffickers spent over $250 million on advertisements in just two years.
Authorities have been trying to devise a system of search terms that are used on the internet. These are the terms that are usually used by traffickers online. When the trafficker uses this term, the authorities will be notified. This is how they can use it to catch traffickers. However, this is just one way the authorities are working to catch human traffickers.
Investigators try hard to infiltrate these trafficking rings and rescue victims. In recent years, collaborative operations between agencies worldwide have succeeded in shutting down major dark net trafficking sites.
Various Scams
You can find various types of scams on every step of the dark net. The dark net provides a lawless environment filled with numerous types of scams and fraud.
Vendors on dark net marketplaces peddle fake IDs, passports, currency, credit cards, and bank account details obtained through data breaches or phishing schemes. Buyers unknowingly purchase these worthless forgeries with cryptocurrency payments that cannot be recovered.
Another common scam exploits the demand for illicit goods and services that cannot be obtained on the surface web. Fraudsters list fake product listings for items like drugs, weapons, hacking tools, or prohibited pornographic content. After receiving cryptocurrency from victims, the scammers simply disappear without delivering anything. These scams have defrauded people out of millions.
Ransomware and data breach extortion have also flourished on the dark net. Hackers encrypt an organization’s data until a ransom in cryptocurrency is paid to provide the decryption key. In data breaches, stolen sensitive information is held for ransom on dark net leak sites. Both types of cyberattacks are facilitated by cryptocurrency tumblers that obscure payment trails. Organizations aren’t the only ones that are victims of such scams. Individuals can also face ransomware attacks where all the files on their devices are locked. And the hackers demand payment to release the files.
Investment fraud is prevalent as well, with scammers capitalizing on cryptocurrency hype to dupe victims. Ponzi schemes and bogus crypto wallets are all ploys to steal funds sent by those hoping to get rich from the next big crypto opportunity. These are just a few of the many scams that can be found on the dark net.
Final Words
No matter how bad things get there is also a silver lining. The same can be said about the dark web. There is no doubt that it is famously used for illegal activities. But that does not mean that it is illegal or that it doesn’t have anything good to offer. From providing a secure platform to whistleblowers and journalists to finding rare research material. The dark web links have a lot of positive things to offer. One thing to keep in mind when browsing the dark web for any of the positive things mentioned above, be sure to take full precautions. Because you might be using the dark web for good purposes. But others are only using the dark web to find vulnerable targets to attack.