The Dark Web sounds scary, doesn’t it? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. It’s accessible only through special software, most commonly the Tor browser, which anonymizes users and allows them to visit websites with .onion domains.
To understand the dark web, it helps to break the internet into three layers:
- Surface Web: The part of the internet we use daily—search engines, social media, news sites.
- Deep Web: Content not indexed by search engines—like private databases, email inboxes, medical records.
- Dark Web: A subset of the deep web that requires special tools to access and is intentionally hidden.
What will you find on the Dark Web? Well, it’s a mixed bag.
- Legitimate uses: Journalists, activists, and whistleblowers use it to communicate anonymously, especially in oppressive regimes.
- Illicit activity: It’s also known for black markets, stolen data, illegal drugs, weapons, and hacking services.
Is It Legal?
Accessing the dark web itself isn’t illegal in most countries, including the U.S. However, engaging in illicit activities while on it, like buying contraband or stolen data, is very much against the law.
Are you still scared, confused, or curious about the dark web? I found this video that explains it pretty well. It’s called The Dark Web Explained Like You Are Five. If a five-year-old can understand it, I am sure you can. (But I would keep your five-year-old away from it.)