In Case You Missed Us: Dangers of the Dark Web on Tech Talk with KTRS

We joined the Guy Phillips show on KTRS for another week of Tech Talk presented by SumnerOne last Friday. As usual, the conversation was nothing short of entertaining! Last week, our IT expert, Jeff Groby, joined the show to talk about the dangers associated with visiting the dark web.

As a disclaimer, we do not recommend that anyone visit the dark web. That side of the internet is filled with nefarious content that can get you flagged by officials for even researching the information. If you are looking for additional information about the dark web, check out the video below.

What is the Dark Web?

The dark web is part of the World Wide Web, but it's only accessible by means of special software. This part of the web allows users to remain anonymous and untraceable. Allowing users access to content that is illegal through the clear net. By trying to access the dark web, users can find themselves flagged for risky activity and even may end up on a watch list.

When users visit the dark web, they can find information about nearly everything. The dark web even had its own illegal market called the Silk Road. This marketplace underwent a large crack down due to the available stock of illegal items and has since been shutdown. Before the crackdown, people could visit the Silk Road to buy literally anything. It didn't matter if it was illegal or not, you could buy it. Not only is the dark web used for illegal purchases, it is also used as a place where cyber criminals can share information.

How is the Dark Web Used?

As Jeff explained, cyber criminals could type a name into the dark web and say that they are looking for information on a certain person. Overnight, an entire file could be made about that person filled with sensitive information like their social security number, address, you name it. Criminals can then pay for your information using bitcoin or other cryptocurrency that allows them to remain anonymous and untraceable. This dark side of the world wide web can be dangerous for unsuspecting people who have had their identity stolen. Guy Phillips even mentioned that his identity has even been compromised at one point!

Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee that your information is not on the dark web. There are a lot of crazy things that go on out there on the dark side of the web. The best way to protect yourself is to stay aware of your information and to avoid visiting the dark web.

Check out the full video of last weeks Tech Talk down below. Be sure to tune in or listen online Friday afternoon at 4:20 for our next segment on the Big 550 KTRS. As always, for more information about IT services or anything technology, contact the experts at SumnerOne.

Originally published June 7, 2018, updated February 12, 2019