Get Norton 360 Deluxe to help protect the personal data you send and receive online. Now, you can also explain to others how their shared Netflix password exposes them to fraud, or why the Dark Web is not just for criminals but also for dissidents and other people fighting for legitimate ideals. It’s not wrong to assume that your personal information is on the Dark Web. If your personal details can be found on web search engines, then they’re most likely available on the Dark Web, too.
Other dark web vendors are simply low-level fraudsters and opportunists, selling things like phone-verified Paypal and Cash App accounts or sharing their Netflix login information for a one-time fee. Dark web vendors are merchants who sell illicit goods and services in underground marketplaces hosted on the dark web. In our blog this week, we’re taking a deep dive into dark web vendors and their role in the underground economy. We’ll also explore how you can safeguard your organization against cyber threats by proactively monitoring illicit vendors and their activity 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.
The system, which is still available today, allows users to express themselves freely without being tracked online. Malicious software, also known as malware, is a critical concern and can affect unsuspecting users. Even simply browsing the dark web out of curiosity can expose you to such threats, like phishing malware or keyloggers. While an endpoint security program can identify such threats if they end up on your computer, it’s ideal to avoid them altogether. That said, while it’s not illegal to browse the dark web, it’s also not completely void of criminal activity. Putting yourself in close proximity with illegal activities is rarely a good idea and could heighten your risk of being targeted by a criminal yourself.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires specific software to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also offers legitimate opportunities for earning money.
For instance, since most companies use the same format for employee email addresses, a simple search will already give a hacker half the information they need to break into an important account, like an email. However, while illegal activity takes place on both the surface web and dark web, the dark web’s ability to conceal the IP addresses of its users makes concealing and carrying out illegal activity easier. There have been many publicly accessible websites that have been shut down for producing/distributing illegal content.
Identity Guard offers Dark Web monitoring on its low-cost Value plan, making it easy for anyone to get alerted to vulnerabilities when their data has been published online. While not as comprehensive as other providers on this list, Identity Guard does make Dark Web monitoring accessible without adding costs for extra features and security services on top of its basic Value plan pricing. Many simply install free software for enabling anonymous communication and direct internet traffic through a free, worldwide, volunteer network consisting of more than seven thousand relays. The user’s location and the usage are hidden from anyone conducting network surveillance or traffic analysis. Most of these free software options make it more difficult for Internet activity to be traced back to the user, including website visits, online posts, instant messages, and other communication forms.
Usually, criminals sell access to exploits and stolen data, but increasingly sites such as 0day.today are releasing more free material, from exploits to data dumps. For example, take a look at the 0day.today web site screen shots below. This is a popular dark web site that peddles software exploits which hackers can use to break into your computer or network.
This is one of the positives of the dark web, as residents of countries that restrict internet access can still visit social media to communicate with the outside world. Blackhat hackers target financial institutions, businesses, and governments, hoping to cause chaos. Starting an eCommerce store on the dark web is one way to make money.
Ways to Earn on the Dark Web
There are numerous methods on how to earn on the dark web, ranging from freelance work to marketplace sales. Below are some of the most common options:
- Freelancing: Skills such as web development, graphic design, and writing can be marketed anonymously.
- Cryptocurrency Trading: Many dark web users engage in trading cryptocurrencies, which can potentially yield high returns.
- Marketplaces: Selling goods and services that may be in demand, whether legal or illegal, can generate income.
- Hacking Services: Offering hacking skills for hire can be lucrative, though it is illegal.
Starting Your Journey
Before diving into how to earn on the dark web, ensure to take necessary precautions for security and privacy:
The Guide To Use Deep/Dark Web & How To Stay Safe Online & Anonymous Using Tor Browser
- Greater availability of as-a-service models, point-and-click tools, and easy-to-find online tutorials make it easier for technical novices to use what these markets have to offer.
- Emile Gauthier and Sébastien Lévesque are passionate about the mysterious stories of the digital age.
- Likely a response to increase law enforcement activities, it is even harder to get access to dark web hacker forums.
- But “based on experience, we can say a majority of the services and data types have not seen significant price fluctuations,” he says.
- Use a VPN: A virtual private network will help mask your IP address.
- Download Tor: This is the primary tool to access the dark web safely.
- Set Up an Anonymous Email: Create an email account that doesn’t reveal your identity.
- Use Cryptocurrency: Transactions are best conducted using cryptocurrencies for anonymity.
Precautions to Consider
Before engaging in earning activities on the dark web, take the following precautions:
- Research: Verify the legitimacy of platforms and potential clients.
- Stay within legal boundaries: Understand the laws regarding your activities.
- Be aware of scams: Many users can fall victim to fraudulent schemes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is earning on the dark web legal?
Some activities might be legal, such as freelance work or selling legal goods, while others are illegal and can lead to severe consequences.
What skills are in demand on the dark web?
Skills such as programming, web development, graphic design, and cybersecurity are in high demand.
How can I ensure my safety while earning on the dark web?
Utilize VPNs, anonymous communication tools, and avoid sharing personal information.
Can I really make money on the dark web?
Yes, but it heavily depends on your skills, effort, and willingness to navigate potential risks.
Conclusion
Learning how to earn on the dark web can be lucrative, but it is essential to approach it with caution and awareness of the associated risks. By leveraging your skills and taking necessary security measures, you can explore various opportunities available in this hidden part of the internet.
