Into the Abyss of the Dark Web : a Study of the Dark Web and Its User

Ching, Vincent Woei Hang (2022) Into the Abyss of the Dark Web : a Study of the Dark Web and Its User. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University College.

Text CHING WOEI HANG VINCENT_Full Text.pdf Restricted to Registered users only Download (2MB)

Abstract

Online anonymity-granting technologies, such as The Onion Router (Tor) network, can be used for both good and evil. The Dark Web is only feasible due to internet anonymity. The Dark Web presents a quandary. Because of the sophistication of Tor and other comparable systems, illegal marketplaces, trolls, and online child abuse rings spread. However, the anonymity afforded by such methods provides cover for those under repressive regimes who require the shelter of technology to browse the Web, access prohibited information, and generally exercise their actual right to free speech. Tor, in other words, is a neutral tool that may be used for good or bad. The net effect determines whether or not the technology is worthwhile. Unfortunately, the expenses and advantages of a system like Tor are not dispersed fairly all over the world. The negatives tend to concentrate in free countries, whereas the positives tend to cluster in oppressive regimes. Shutting down anonymity networks is not a feasible long-term solution since it will most likely be unsuccessful and costly to individuals who really benefit from these systems. Rather than being a purely technological issue, the purpose of this article is to reveal the mystery of the dark web so that readers may determine for themselves whether they support or oppose it.