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The dark web: what it is, how it works, and why it's not going away

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2014 saw the continued growth of the dark web, a collection of underground websites that allow people to engage in often-illegal activities beyond the reach of law enforcement. Here's what the dark web is, how it works, and why it's not going away any time soon.

What is the dark web?

T he dark web is a general term for the seedier corners of the web, where people can interact online without worrying about the watchful eye of the authorities. Usually, these sites are guarded by encryption mechanisms such as Tor that allow users to visit them anonymously. But there are also sites that don't rely on Tor, such as password-protected forums where hackers trade secrets and stolen credit card numbers, that can also be considered part of the dark web.

People use the dark web for a variety of purposes: buying and selling drugs, discussing hacking techniques and selling hacking services, trading child pornography, and so forth.

It's important to remember that the technologies used to facilitate "dark web" activities aren't inherently good or bad. The same technologies used by drug dealers and child pornographers to hide their identity can also be used by whistleblowers and dissidents in repressive regimes.

What's Tor? Why is it important for the dark web?

( Jussi Mononen )

Tor, which stands for "the onion router," is a technology that allows people to browse the web and access online services without revealing their identities. The Tor network consists of thousands of servers located all over the world. They're run by volunteers seeking to bolster privacy rights.

When you browse the web using a  Tor-based browser , your communications are automatically bounced off of several Tor servers before they reach their destination. The process makes it almost impossible for anyone to trace the traffic back to you. According to documents released by Ed Snowden, even the NSA has struggled to unmask Tor users.

Tor allows the creation of hidden services, websites that use the Tor network to hide their physical location. This technology has allowed the creation of websites devoted to illegal activities that are difficult for the authorities to trace and shut down.

Surprisingly, Tor was created with financial support from the US government, which wanted to promote the free flow of information. Government support for Tor has continued in recent years as part of the State Department's internet freedom agenda, which seeks to help people in repressive regimes gain access to information censored by their governments.

While Tor has many illicit uses, it also has a lot of legitimate ones. For example, Facebook recently announced a version of its website that can be accessed over the Tor network, which will make it easier to access the site from countries that restrict the service, such as China and Iran.

What kind of information can you find on the dark web?

( photophilde )

Almost any type of illegal and legally questionable products and services can be found somewhere in the internet's underground.

One of the best examples is the Silk Road , a now-defunct website that, for more than two years, operated as a kind of illicit eBay. The Silk Road was most famous for offering a wide variety of illegal drugs, but it offered other illicit products as well. You could buy fake IDs, pirated DVDs, fireworks, and stolen credit-card numbers.

The Silk Road website was a Tor hidden service, which made it difficult for the authorities to shut the site down. All transactions were conducted using Bitcoin , meaning they couldn't be traced the way credit-card transactions can be. But eventually, law enforcement was able to identify the site's alleged operator, who was arrested in 2013.

Almost immediately, copycat sites sprang up . A successor site called Silk Road 2 was founded in 2013, but it was infiltrated by law enforcement and shut down in 2014. Currently, one of the largest Silk Road successors is a site called Evolution. Ars Technica recently reported that it had 26,000 product listings.

Even these sites had some lines they weren't willing to cross. For example, all three sites barred child pornography listings. But other dark web sites exist to help users find and distribute this kind of material. A recent study by computer scientist Gareth Owen suggested that sites related to child abuse and child pornography could account for as much as 80 percent of traffic to Tor hidden services (though hidden services account for a small fraction of Tor traffic overall).

Why has Bitcoin become popular on dark web sites?

If you tried to set up an illicit drug marketplace that used conventional credit cards, it wouldn't last very long. For one thing, Visa and Mastercard rules would likely bar you from getting a merchant account. And customers would be wary of using a credit card linked to their real identity to make illicit purchases. You'd also have to worry about customers reversing charges after the goods had been delivered, since you can't exactly go to the authorities if your customers rip you off.

In short, a digital black market needs the digital equivalent of cash. And that's exactly what Bitcoin is. Bitcoin, like cash, allows transactions to be made anonymously. And with no one in charge of the Bitcoin network, there's no one with the authority to block illicit transactions.

But we shouldn't overstate Bitcoin's anonymity. You don't need to prove your identity before using the Bitcoin network the way you do with credit cards. But that doesn't necessarily mean the authorities won't be able to trace buyers and sellers. Indeed, information about every Bitcoin transaction is publicly available; by examining the pattern of transactions, the authorities may be able to tie a Bitcoin transaction to a real-world identity.

For example, the authorities were allegedly able to prove that the founder of Silk Road 2 cashed out $273,626.60 worth of bitcoins , then used some of the cash to buy a brand new Tesla Model S. We don't know exactly how the authorities made this connection, but they may have subpoenaed the exchange that converted the bitcoins into dollars. Disguising bitcoin earnings is a complex and difficult task; one slip-up can reveal your real identity.

As with Tor, it's important to note that not all, or even most, uses of the Bitcoin network are for illicit purposes. There are  tens of thousands of legitimate businesses that accept Bitcoin. But criminals have been attracted to Bitcoin for the same reasons they've been attracted to conventional cash.

Is the dark web the same thing as the deep web?

No, the deep web is a broader concept. It refers to all online content that's not accessible to search engines. That includes the internet's underground economy, but it also includes mainstream websites that simply aren't set up for Google's and Bing's web crawlers. For example, most of Facebook is part of the deep web: most Facebook content is only available to the poster's friends, not the general public. Similarly, many searchable databases won't come up in Google results even though anyone can access them.

Can the authorities ever stamp out the dark web?

( Daniel 'Bucko' Buxton )

The government is unlikely to ever fully suppress the dark web for the same reason that law enforcement has never been able to eliminate conventional black markets: there's a lot of demand for the information and products offered on these sites, and there's always going to be someone willing to take the risks involved in meeting that demand.

And these sites can earn a lot of money. Silk Road 2, for example, reportedly earned $8 million in a single month before it was shut down. That kind of money will always attract copycats who believe they can succeed where their predecessors had failed.

Moreover, the government probably can't — and shouldn't — shut down the underlying technologies that make the dark web possible. Tor provides crucial protection to dissidents and whistleblowers around the world. Bitcoin has the potential to produce significant innovations in the payments business. And shutting down these technologies won't stop people from using the internet for illicit purposes. Most likely, these activities will simply shift overseas, where they will be even harder for American authorities to police.

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Ethical Pros and Cons of the Darknet

In a remote and dangerous region of the Internet dwells another lesser-known net, a lawless digital no-man's-land with a shady reputation and an ominous name: The Darknet.

Here on the virtually anything-goes  Darknet , with its guaranteed anonymity, criminals and scammers of one stripe or another, anti-government rebels, revolutionaries, terrorists and other varieties of outlaw can hawk their goods and services, communicate with visitors and customers to their sites and with each other, and operate anonymously and thus presumably with impunity.

But the Darknet, paradoxically, is also like a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, with its share of good qualities as well, including its use by law enforcement agencies to conceal their own legal activities and as a medium for writing and reading what might otherwise be censored in authoritarian states. So the Darknet is not entirely evil and beyond redemption.

But first, let's take a look at the darkest side of the Darknet.

Major crimes committed through the assistance of the Darknet include the sales of guns of every variety and caliber, no license required, no questions asked. Buyers favor assault weapons such as the AK-47 assault rifle, but new and stolen handguns also sell briskly.

A notorious Darknet site called Silk Road was alleged to be a virtual supermarket of narcotics, where traffickers and users could buy their drugs of choice in small amounts or wholesale lots. The FBI took down the site, but soon afterward a site called Silk Road 2.0 appeared and reportedly resumed business as usual.

Counterfeit U.S. currency is also sold on the Darknet – especially 20 and 100 dollar bills, peddled at prices discounted from their face value.

Also much in demand from Darknet entrepreneurs are phony passports, birth certificates, forged or bogus documents and stolen credit cards.

Prostitutes advertise openly on the Darknet, usually with photographs, although some of the photos may not be pictures of the person advertising. But to whom can a swindled customer complain?

Another category of criminal enterprise found on the Darknet is the professional assassin. Murder-for-hire services are boldly advertised, and although there are no reliable figures on the number of Darknet-related contract killings, there are reputedly no shortage of customers.

Some self-proclaimed assassins of the Darknet you might ironically say are unethical because they take a customer's money and never deliver the promised fatal result.

Other Darknet "hit men" are police conducting sting operations, many of which have been successful in preventing homicides and apprehending potential murderers.

Asian customers of the Darknet have a predilection for  animal parts  of certain endangered species, which are readily available for a price. Annual sales in this illegal market have been estimated at $20 billion.

Powdered rhinoceros horn is a favorite of Chinese and Vietnamese buyers, although it is popular in many other countries as well. Rhino horn is mistakenly reputed to have mystical, psychoactive and various medicinal properties. A single rhino horn can sell for as much as $500,000 and a kilo of the horn in powdered form sells for as much as $90,000.

Other animal parts offered for sale include elephant tusks, which are pure ivory and sell for high prices on the black market. Tiger parts reportedly also sell well, as do exotic animals, protected by law.

Criminal operators on the Darknet protect their identity through encryption – every Darknet dweller, as mentioned, is masked in anonymity and nobody knows anybody, unless a name is deliberately revealed. Outsiders or third parties cannot access communications between two parties. Sellers and buyers of Darknet contraband and illegal services are therefore impossible to trace.

Additional secrecy is provided by hidden servers and IPs and by URLs whose sites often disappear randomly and unpredictably.

With all these security measures it's easy to see how criminal activity on the Darknet is rampant and for the most part unpunished.

But the same elements that protect felonious activities on the Darknet can also be used for positive purposes.

Political dissidents, for example, who are denied freedom of speech by their dictatorial governments may publish anti-government editorials or messages on rogue sites and leave nary a trace of their identities. There is no government-imposed censorship on the Darknet and so anyone can say anything without fear of retribution.

Also cloaked anonymously in the Darknet's shadows are whistleblowers who can tell news sources their tales of public or private sector misconduct, mismanagement, malfeasance or worse and be assured that they won’t be tagged as the snitch. Information leakers, likewise, can disclose proprietary or classified information and their identities would never be known.

Darknet "hacktivist" vigilantes also roam the territory in pursuit of villains and villainous sites. Recently a hacktivist operation took down a child porn site – frontier justice cyber-style, you might say. The destructive hacking of the site was perhaps unethical and maybe illegal, because there was no trial by jury.

It's not difficult to get to the Darknet. Google “TOR Project” and the following link will appear:  https://www.torproject.org/index.html.en .

The TOR Project site – TOR is short for The Onion Router – is home to a network that allows anonymous browsing of both the mainstream Internet and Darknet. TOR also hosts a directory of Darknet sites, most of which have the suffix  .onion  as the address extension.

Be forewarned, however, visiting the Darknet is definitely hazardous and all due security precautions should be taken. Don't share personal information and don't use passwords you use on the Internet. It's also not wise to click on links and, of course, don't give out credit card or Social Security numbers.

The U.S. government just  recently announced  that it would give up oversight of the Internet in 2015.

But after the administration was urged not to give up Internet control by Bill Clinton, by 35 Republican senators who sent a letter to that effect to the President, and as a result of Congressional hearings, the administration changed its mind and will retain oversight of the net.

The U.S. currently controls of The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, also known as Icann, which assigns domain names and web addresses and keeps Net operations running smoothly, openly and free of domestic and foreign political pressure.

If the planned relinquishment of Internet oversight were implemented, the U.S. would hand over control to a group of global companies, nonprofits and academics. Opponents of the move predicted that repressive governments such as Russia, China and North Korea – there are many others as well – would increase their authoritarian control of the Internet and step up their already strict censorship.

Without U.S. control, countries with strong restrictions on the Internet would not permit Darknet access. But where the Internet would be open and free of restraints, the Darknet – if it continued to exist – would likely flourish. Why? Because crime is a market-driven enterprise and people will want to speak, write and read freely, without censorship of any kind. This is the great paradox of the Darknet.

Marc Davis is a veteran journalist and published novelist. His reporting and writing has been published in numerous print and online publications including AOL, The Chicago Tribune, Forbes Online Media, The Journal of the American Bar Association, and many others. His latest novel, Bottom Line, was published in 2013.

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Understanding the Dark Web

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• Dimitrios Kavallieros 5 , 6 ,
• Dimitrios Myttas 7 ,
• Emmanouil Kermitsis 7 ,
• Euthimios Lissaris 7 ,
• Georgios Giataganas 7 &
• Eleni Darra 7  

Part of the book series: Security Informatics and Law Enforcement ((SILE))

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This chapter presents the main differences of the surface web, Deep Web and Dark Web as well as their dependences. It further discusses the nature of the Dark Web and the structure of the most prominent darknets, namely, Tor, I2P and Freenet, and provides technical information regarding the technologies behind these darknets. In addition, it discusses the effects police actions on the surface web can have on the Dark Web, the “dilemma” of usage that anonymity technologies present,as well as the challenges LEAs face while trying to prevent and fight against crime and terrorism in the Dark Web.

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Kavallieros, D., Myttas, D., Kermitsis, E., Lissaris, E., Giataganas, G., Darra, E. (2021). Understanding the Dark Web. In: Akhgar, B., Gercke, M., Vrochidis, S., Gibson, H. (eds) Dark Web Investigation. Security Informatics and Law Enforcement. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-55343-2_1

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Dark Web: Criminal Activity or Dissident Communication Essay

Introduction, ethical question, competing answers, personal answer, ethical support, implication of the answer to the ethical question, annotated bibliography.

In understanding if the Dark Web is a threat or an opportunity for people to be free, one serious step is usually missing. Instead of giving clear definitions and examples of web activities, users prefer to consider it as something bad and illegal due to the presence of the word “dark” in the title. However, one should remember about “Dark Knight” or “Dark Phoenix” to realize that “dark” may be illegal or unknown but not always bad or dangerous. In the discussion of ethical issues in computing, the concept of the Dark Web may be treated from two major perspectives. It may be either a criminal activity that has to be controlled and banned or a place for dissident communication where people are free to demonstrate their desires and interests openly. Relying on Kant’s moral theory about maxims and results, this paper aims to answer the dilemma of legal and ethical appropriateness of the Dark Web in modern society and support the idea of human freedoms.

Nowadays, millions of people have already heard about the Dark Web and its ambiguous impact on computing and society. Many researchers begin their projects by comparing the Dark Web with an iceberg, meaning that more than 90% of the Internet content is hidden (Beckstrom and Lund 3; Croy 30; Weimann 196). It is hard to evaluate its true impact on the environment, and people use their subjective guesses to come to at least some conclusion. The Dark Web is a collection of websites in the encrypted network with the help of which search via traditional browsers is impossible (Croy 5). Web browsers should have the Onion Router encryption tool (Tor), developed by the US Naval Research Laboratory for anonymous online communication, or the Invisible Internet Project (I2P) for censorship-resisted communication (Weimann 196). The Dark Web hides the sites ended with.onion or.i2p, and access to them requires a specific program with the “user to change the DNS server addresses in his or her router” (Gehl 1220). Such an opportunity to hide identities and introduce false locations has many benefits, as well as created certain threats.

A variety of options for ordinary users create a serious problem for society to understand a possible impact of the Dark Web on the present and the future. It is hard for people to understand if this theme requires an immediate and definite answer and attitude. The Dark Web fascinates people in keeping their identities a secret to discover dangerous or inhuman demands (child pornography or torturing) (Dewey). Therefore, a number of normative, ethical questions may be developed in terms of the chosen computer science and engineering topic. What should be the outcomes of the Dark Web usage if it is one-way considered as a place for dissident communication between free people instead of a criminal activity and a root of cyber terrorism? It is the ethical question that might not have a correct answer but could promote new technical discussions, ethical concerns, and subjective opinions.

Many competing answers about the Dark Web may occur from technical or ethical perspectives. In this discussion, attention is paid to the two options. First, the recognition of the Dark Web as a criminal activity helps control human actions but tighten up their freedoms. Second, the idea to use the Dark Web as the place for dissident communication does not question human freedoms but promotes the creation of a new social group of people with their needs and wants. According to Croy, “the Dark Web has become a global marketplace for illegal good and services”. Such a statement proves the possibility of the correctness of the first answer. At the same time, Beckstrom and Lund ask to under the “true mission of these platforms” as “one of the most valuable tools for freedom and privacy the world has ever seen”. Dissident communication was not popular or allowed several decades ago, and now, certain progress was achieved. People have got what they wanted to get for centuries. The Dark Web opened the door to new opportunities, and it is time to decide either they are legal or not.

I strongly believe that despite obtained knowledge, experience, and achievements, a person is never able to estimate the true cost of his or her decisions. Time is the only unit of measurement for human actions. For example, people want to study as many subjects as possible to understand what they are good at with time. Groups of people migrate to find out new opportunities with time. Couples fall in love to get married and have children with time. In all these situations, it is impossible to understand if human decisions are successful or not. Therefore, they need time to come to a conclusion and understand what happens around.

Almost the same situation is observed around the Dark Web. If this network is defined as a criminal activity, society will be not able to understand its true pros and cons and treat it as something bad. Dewey says that “people are fascinated by these grotesque urban legends”, and they can hardly forget or neglect their desire to learn the truth. There are enough space and conditions under which the Dark Web may be identified as a place for dissident communication where people try their free will and choices. If the Dark Web is dangerous to human lives, people get to know about it with time, but they have to discover everything on their own.

To support my answer and define the Dark Web as the source of dissident communication, I would like to rely on the ethical theory developed by Kant. This philosopher believed that the morality of human actions depends on “its maxims rather than its results” or “what is within our control” (Shafer-Landau 164). Maxims are the actions people give themselves when they are going to do something (Shafer-Landau 163). Consequently, everything a person does or thinks is morally approved and right because it can be physically done. In other words, Kant’s theory strengthens my position about the necessity of the Dark Web because of the already evident possibility of its existence.

The Code of Ethics in the IEEE Computer Society is another strong evidence to explain the inevitability of the Dark Web in human lives. Among the existing eight principles, four of them depict a true picture of the situation. First, there is a product (the Dark Web or Tor) with achievable goals and standards for using. Second, it is expected by the public principle to accept responsibility for all the work done (“Code of Ethics”). Another principle, profession, helps develop a specific environment in an organization where knowledge, participation, and order are appreciated (“Code of Ethics”). Finally, the Dark Web is the place where support for colleagues and professional development are promoted. All these principles support the ideas of freedom of Kant’s theory and show that the Dark Web can be a legal enterprise.

The Dark Web is the concept with a number of supporters and opponents. Regarding Kant’s ethical theory and the list of principles in the Code of Ethics in computing, this network should not be identified as a criminal activity but rather an opportunity for dissident communication. Such a choice allows people knowing their options, staying free, and contributing to professional and personal growth. There will always be a chance to call the Dark Web illegal activity and impose controlling orders and rules. However, if human freedoms are questioned without the possibility to do what is wanted, new concerns and conflicts may arise.

The Dark Web is a result of someone’s work that is characterized by a high level of professionals and knowledge. My answer to consider it as dissident communication may be implied to multiple social and ethical discussions. People want to believe that they are free to choose or behave the way they want. Modern demands vary and are not mutually accepted and supported. Therefore, the presence of such places like the Dark Web is a good chance for people of different interests to be united and understood in terms of their principles and conceptions.

Beckstrom, Matthew, and Brady Lund. Casting Light on the Dark Web: A Guide for Safe Exploration. Rowman & Littlefield, 2019.

Despite the fact that society is not ready to trust the content of the Dark Web and continues questioning its appropriateness, Beckstrom and Lund offer a guide to prove the worthiness of the source. Each chapter has its specific topic concerning the Dark Web (definitions, history, usage, or development). Having clear explanations and distinctions between myths and realities, this source helps get a clear picture of what the Dark Web is, and what its ethical dilemmas are.

“Code of Ethics” IEEE Computer Society , 1999. Web.

The IEEE Computer Society is the author of this Code who pursues the goal to introduce and explain ethical basics of software engineering and professional practices. In addition to the public interest as one of the major principles, the Code underlines the worth of self, colleagues, employers, clients, profession, management, and judgment. The investigation of the ethical aspects of the Dark Web will be strengthened due to the possibility to remove ethical tensions and concerns and create an equal basis for analysis.

Croy, Anita. The Dark Web: The Covert World of Cybercrime. Greenhaven Publishing, 2018.

Croy focuses on the necessity to identify and describe crimes that happen on the Dark Web. The intentions of criminals may vary, and this book is based on clear definitions of computer crimes, identity theft, terrorism, and cyber warfare to explain how the Dark Web contributes to their growth and control. No author is ready for taking a side to either support or oppose the Dark Web, and the statements developed by Croy should help a researcher understand the basics for new visions.

Dewey, Caitlin. “In Search of the Darkest, Most Disturbing Content on the Internet” The Washington Post , 2015. Web.

The strength of this credible magazine article is a combination of statements and judgments at both technical and personal levels. On the one hand, people are free to access the Dark Web, using Tor or similar browsers. On the other hand, there are no guarantees that all the actions remain anonymous and safe. The popularity of the Dark Web is not only a scientific or social problem but an ethical challenge with the intention to comprehend why users are so ambiguous in their decisions about safety, quality, and freedom.

Gehl, Robert W. “Power/Freedom on the Dark Web: A Digital Ethnography of the Dark Web Social Network.” New Media & Society, vol. 18, no. 7, 2016, pp. 1219-1235.

There are many attempts to promote a better understanding of the Dark Web problems and benefits, and this journal article is one of the sources that contain an ethnographic exploration of the topic. The Dark Web is an experiment where people deal with their demons about power, freedom, and opportunities. Attention to the issues of anonymity, child pornography, and techno-elitism as community building gives a chance to unite positive and negative attitudes towards the Dark Web.

Shafer-Landau, Russ. The Fundamentals of Ethics . 4th ed., Oxford University Press, 2018.

An understanding of the essentials of moral philosophy is one of the major outcomes the readers of the book can achieve. Although there is no relation to the cyber environment and the Dark Web crimes, Shafer-Landau develops a discussion about ethical theories and philosophies about human actions and intentions. Kant’s theory evaluates the ultimate morality that neglects justice issues to improve well-being. The idea of the person’s desires and needs is above the results and outcomes, which is a good explanation of the Dark Web and the choice people make.

Weimann, Gabriel. “Going Dark: Terrorism on the Dark Web.” Studies in Conflict & Terrorism, vol. 39, no. 3, 2015, pp. 195-206.

Although the Dark Web is not a new topic, people like developing various theories and attitudes towards this issue to come to one definite conclusion and define if it should be legal or not. In this article, Weimann initiates a discussion about terrorism that is observed on the Dark Web and recommendations for its monitoring. The recognition of hidden services and new domains is an obligation that cannot be ignored in cyber research.

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• Immanuel Kant's Life and Philosophy
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• History of Cyber Terrorism
• Acceptable Use Policy and Digital Citizenship
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• Wireless Local Area Network and Channel Fading
• The Internet of Things: Technical Description
• The Internet at Individual and Societal Levels

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The Dark Web

Table of contents, what is the dark web, what is the dark web used for, dark net price data, dark web vs. deep web vs. surface web, the malicious side of the dark web, threats on the dark web, is it illegal to access the dark web, how to access the dark web safely, the role of cybersecurity on the dark net.

The dark web, also known as the dark net, refers to the hidden portion of the internet that can only be accessed through specialized software and tools, such as the Tor browser. While the dark web is often associated with illicit activities, it also has legitimate uses, such as providing an inconspicuous platform for certain entities to communicate and share information anonymously.

Understanding the dark web is crucial to cybersecurity, as it can be a breeding ground for various cyber threats, including the sale of stolen data, malware distribution, and the coordination of elaborate cyber-attacks . By familiarizing yourself with the dark web and the tactics threat actors use, you can better prepare yourself and your organization to mitigate the risks posed by this hidden corner of the internet.

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The dark web refers to the hidden and encrypted portion of the internet that’s inaccessible through traditional web browsers. It is a part of the deep web, which encompasses all the content on the internet that is not indexed by search engines and inaccessible through standard search queries.

The dark web is a network of hidden websites and services that operate on specialized software and protocols, such as the Tor browser. These websites and services are typically identified by their unique .onion domain extensions , designed to conceal the actual location and identity of the website’s operators.

The dark web is often used for both legitimate and illicit purposes. On the legitimate side, it can be used by journalists, activists, whistleblowers, and others who value privacy and anonymity to communicate and securely share information without fear of surveillance or censorship. This is particularly important in regions with authoritarian regimes or where free speech is restricted.

However, the dark web is also a notorious hub for various illegal activities, including the sale of illicit goods (e.g., drugs, weapons, and stolen data), the distribution of malware , the coordination of cyber-attacks, and the exchange of child exploitation material. Threat actors often use the dark web to conduct their operations anonymously, making it a significant concern for cybersecurity professionals and law enforcement agencies.

To access the dark web, users typically need to download and install specialized software like the Tor browser, which encrypts their internet traffic and hides their IP address , making it difficult to trace their online activities. While the Tor browser provides a high level of anonymity, it does not guarantee complete privacy or security, and users should exercise caution when navigating the dark web.

The dark web hosts a myriad of activities, spanning from wholly legitimate to highly illegal. Its uses are as diverse as the users who navigate its depths. Here’s an exploration of the various purposes it serves:

• Anonymity and privacy: The dark web offers unparalleled anonymity for users. This feature is crucial for activists, whistleblowers, and journalists working under oppressive regimes or in situations where privacy and security are paramount.
• The trade of illegal items: Infamous for its concealed marketplaces, the dark web facilitates transactions involving narcotics, weaponry, counterfeit products, and stolen data. These hidden bazaars operate under a cloak of anonymity but are often the focus of sophisticated law enforcement operations aimed at dismantling them.
• Cybercrime services: Cyber criminals leverage the dark net’s obscurity to offer services from initiating DDoS attacks to crafting bespoke malware designed to infiltrate specific targets or organizations.
• Anonymous financial transactions: The preference for cryptocurrencies on the dark web stems from further obscuring transaction details, making financial exchanges virtually untraceable and preferred for legitimate privacy concerns and illicit dealings.
• Secure communication: Encrypted messaging services on the dark web provide secure communication channels that protect sensitive information from interception or surveillance—valued by individuals seeking privacy and organizations requiring confidentiality.
• Access to restricted information: In countries with severe censorship laws, the dark web is vital for accessing blocked websites or resources freely without fear of reprisal.
• Research purposes: Cybersecurity professionals often delve into the dark web to research cyber threats, track potential security breaches, and stay ahead of emerging malware trends—a testament to its importance in digital defense strategies.
• Whistleblowing platforms: This hidden layer contains several platforms designed explicitly for whistleblowing, enabling individuals to share information about illicit activities anonymously with news organizations or watchdog groups.
• Hosting sensitive content: From platforms advocating free speech in oppressive regimes to unsavory content that faces legal actions worldwide, hosting services on the dark web cater to a wide array of needs—highlighting its role as a double-edged sword in digital spaces.

The range of uses of the dark net sheds light on broader societal challenges intertwined with anonymous online interactions. Its duality presents an ongoing challenge for individuals navigating it with legitimate intentions and authorities striving to curb its misuse while respecting privacy rights.

The prices of illegal transactions on the dark web vary depending on the type of goods or services being traded. Here are some examples of dark web prices based on data from Statista and Merchant Fraud Journal .

• Payment processing services: Verified Stripe accounts with payment gateways are one of the most expensive offerings at $1,200, while new payment processing services like Revolut ($1,600), Switzerland online banking logins ($2,200), and Payoneer verified accounts ($200) have entered the dark web marketplace.
• Cryptocurrency accounts: Accounts from popular platforms like LocalBitcoins ($70), Blockchain.com ($85), Coinbase ($250), and Kraken (soaring from $250 in 2022 to $1170 in 2023) saw notable price hikes.
• Credit card details: The average price for credit card details ranges from $1 (in the U.S., Canada, and Australia) to $20 each (in Hong Kong). However, prices for credit cards fell by 27% this year, but prices for PayPal accounts went up 194% .
• Hacked PayPal accounts: Hacked PayPal account logins can be purchased for $150.
• Hacked online banking logins: Stolen online banking logins for accounts with a $2,000 minimum are priced at $120.
• Drugs: Over 50 illicit drug marketplaces operate on the dark web, with prices varying by drug and quantity.
• Malware: The prices for malware attacks range from $70 for a low-quality batch of malicious tools to $6000 for a set of premium malware tools.
• DDoS attacks: A 24-hour DDoS attack targeting an unprotected website with 10-50k requests per second costs an average of $45, while the same attack lasting for a month costs $850 on average.

These prices are subject to change due to various factors, such as supply and demand, the popularity of certain goods or services, and law enforcement efforts. It’s also important to note that these prices are for illegal transactions, and engaging in such activities is against the law and can result in severe penalties.

The internet offers a vast expanse of information living on different layers of the World Wide Web. To understand its structure, we can categorize it into three distinct layers: the surface web, the deep web, and the dark web.

Surface Web

This is the most familiar layer to everyday internet users. It comprises websites and resources indexed by search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. These are publicly accessible pages that can be found using standard browsers without any special configuration—ranging from news websites and eCommerce platforms to social media networks and informational sites. The surface web represents only a small percentage of what’s available on the entire internet but is where most online activities occur.

Contrary to popular belief, the deep web isn’t nefarious by nature. Instead, it encompasses all content on the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines, making it inaccessible through simple search queries. This includes private databases such as academic journals’ archives, government records, healthcare portals, and even personal email accounts.

Essentially, the deep web hosts protected or gated content requiring specific credentials (like login details) for access. While vastly larger than the surface web, most of its content is mundane data stored securely online.

The dark web is a concealed portion of the deep web, made accessible only through special encryption technologies like the Tor network. This layer is intentionally hidden from the general public and can only be accessed with specific software, settings, or authorization. It’s designed to offer users complete anonymity and privacy for their online activities, which range across both lawful and unlawful spectrums.

The dark web has a reputation as a haven for criminal activities due to its focus on privacy. However, it also serves vital roles in protecting free speech, aiding in secure communication for dissidents under oppressive regimes, and allowing cybersecurity professionals to conduct anonymous research.

The dark web’s anonymity and encryption make it an attractive platform for these illicit activities, as it significantly hinders law enforcement efforts to track and apprehend the perpetrators. It’s become a hub for a wide range of illegal activities and cyber crime. Some of the most prevalent illicit activities taking place on the dark web include:

• Drug trafficking: The dark web has emerged as a major marketplace for the sale of recreational and pharmaceutical drugs, with vendors offering a wide variety of illegal substances.
• Weapons trading: Firearms, explosives, and other weapons are also sold on dark web marketplaces, often to individuals unable to obtain them through legal channels.
• Human trafficking: The anonymity provided by the dark web has made it a platform for the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including sex trafficking and the sale of personal information.
• Child exploitation: Horrifyingly, the dark web is also used to distribute child pornography and other exploitative content involving minors.
• Stolen data and identity theft: Cyber criminals use the dark web to buy and sell stolen personal information, such as credit card details, social security numbers, and hacked account credentials.
• Hacking and malware distribution: The dark web serves as a marketplace for hacking tools, malware, and other cyber crime services, enabling threat actors to coordinate attacks and distribute malicious code.
• Assassination services: One of the most disturbing aspects of the dark web is the existence of “assassination markets,” where individuals can pay to have someone killed.
• Extremist and terrorist activities: The dark web also provides a platform for the spread of extremist ideologies, the coordination of terrorist activities, and the dissemination of related content.

While the overall volume of dark web transactions remains relatively small compared to global illicit commerce, the rapid growth and severity of these crimes have become a major concern for authorities.

The dark web poses a significant threat to both individuals and organizations due to the wide range of illegal and malicious activities within this hidden corner of the internet. Some of the key threats associated with the dark web include:

• Cybercrime: The dark web is a hub for various cyber criminal activities, such as identity theft, credit card fraud, and malware distribution. Threat actors use the anonymity the dark web provides to conduct these illicit operations without fear of detection.
• Illegal marketplaces: The dark web hosts numerous marketplaces where users can buy and sell a wide range of illegal goods and services, including drugs, weapons, stolen data, and even contract killings.
• Malware distribution: Cyber criminals leverage the dark web to distribute malicious software, such as ransomware, viruses, and trojans, which can infect users’ devices and compromise their personal and financial information.
• Scams and fraud: Many dark web websites are designed to steal users’ personal information or money through various scams and fraudulent activities.
• Exploitation and trafficking: The dark web has become a platform for the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including human trafficking and the distribution of child pornography.
• Extremism and terrorism: The dark web also provides a haven for the spread of extremist ideologies and the coordination of terrorist activities.
• Surveillance and monitoring: While the dark web offers a high degree of anonymity, it is not entirely free from authority oversight. Law enforcement agencies and intelligence services have been known to infiltrate and monitor dark web activities, potentially putting users at risk of being identified and prosecuted.

The anonymity and encryption provided by the dark web make it an attractive platform for these illicit activities, as it significantly hinders law enforcement efforts to track and apprehend the perpetrators.

Accessing and browsing the dark web is generally not illegal. The dark web is a part of the internet that can only be accessed through specialized software and has legal and illegal uses. The legality ultimately depends on the user’s specific actions and intentions, not merely the act of accessing the dark web itself.

While the dark web is often associated with illicit activities such as the sale of drugs, weapons, stolen data, and other contraband, simply accessing the dark web is not against the law. However, the anonymity provided by the dark web can enable users to engage in illegal activities, and law enforcement agencies do monitor dark web activity. In turn, it’s crucial for individuals to exercise caution and only use the dark web for legitimate and legal purposes, such as protecting their privacy, accessing censored information, or communicating securely.

Accessing the dark web requires specialized software and tools to maintain anonymity and security. The key steps to safely access the dark web are:

• Download the proper web browser: The most commonly used browser for accessing the dark web is the Tor Browser. Tor is designed to anonymize your online activity by encrypting your data and routing it through a network of volunteer relays around the world, making it difficult to trace your identity and location.
• Configure your browser settings: Once you have an appropriate browser installed, you should configure the settings to enhance your privacy and security. This includes adjusting permissions, enabling cookie and site data controls, and setting up user authentication preferences.
• Choose a suitable search engine: While regular search engines like Google cannot access the dark web, there are specialized search engines designed for the dark web, such as DuckDuckGo, Ahmia, and Torch. These search engines can help you find relevant websites and content on the dark web while maintaining your anonymity.
• Anonymize your searches: When using a dark web search engine, be sure to enable the “Onionize” or anonymization feature to further protect your identity and online activities.
• Exercise caution: The dark web is an unregulated and potentially dangerous environment, so it’s crucial to exercise extreme caution when accessing it. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, downloading unknown files, or engaging in any illegal activities.
• Use a VPN: While not strictly necessary, using a reputable VPN service in addition to the Tor Browser can provide an extra layer of security and anonymity when accessing the dark web.
• Avoid accessing the dark web on mobile devices: Never use mobile devices like smartphones or tablets to access the dark web, as they may not provide the same level of security and anonymity as a dedicated dark web browser on a desktop or laptop computer.

By following these steps and maintaining a cautious and vigilant approach, users can safely explore the dark web for legitimate purposes, such as accessing sensitive information, communicating securely, or conducting research. However, it’s essential to understand the risks and avoid engaging in illegal activities, as the dark web hosts a wide range of illicit content and services.

Cybersecurity professionals play a crucial role in monitoring and mitigating the threats that originate from the dark net.

• Threat intelligence gathering: Cybersecurity experts closely monitor the dark net to gather intelligence on emerging cyber threats , new hacking techniques, and cyber criminal activity. This information is used to proactively defend against potential attacks and inform security strategies.
• Vulnerability identification: By analyzing the content and discussions on dark net forums and marketplaces, cybersecurity professionals can identify vulnerabilities in systems, software, and processes that threat actors may attempt to exploit. This allows organizations to address these weaknesses before they can be exploited.
• Incident response and mitigation: When data breaches or other security incidents are detected, cybersecurity teams leverage their dark web intelligence to investigate the source of the attack, understand the tactics used, and implement appropriate countermeasures to mitigate the impact and prevent future occurrences.
• Collaboration with law enforcement: Cybersecurity experts work closely with law enforcement agencies to share intelligence and support investigations into dark net-related criminal activities.
• Developing defensive strategies: The insights gained from monitoring the dark net enable cybersecurity professionals to develop more robust and proactive security strategies, including the implementation of advanced threat detection and response capabilities, employee security awareness training, and the adoption of secure communication and collaboration tools.
• Ethical hacking and penetration testing: Some cybersecurity experts may engage in ethical hacking or penetration testing activities on the dark net to better understand the tactics and techniques used by threat actors, which can then be used to strengthen an organization’s defenses.

By actively monitoring and analyzing the dark net, cybersecurity professionals play a vital role in protecting organizations and individuals from the growing threats that originate from this hidden corner of the internet.

Their efforts help to identify, mitigate, and prevent a wide range of cyber-attacks, ultimately enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture of the organizations they serve.

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Dark Web Vs Deep Web Explained: What's The Difference?

T he internet was created in 1983 and has become a key part of our everyday lives. In fact, Statista  reported there were 5.35 billion internet users as of January 2024. But while millions of people spend their time surfing through Google and other search engines, there are deeper and darker parts of the web a lot of people don't know exist.

You've probably heard the terms "deep web" and "dark web" thrown around on the internet, on TV, or maybe even in real life. Though they're often used interchangeably to refer to the more questionable areas of the internet, they're quite different. And understanding these differences is a dive into the true depth of the internet. While the average person usually limits their browsing to the "surface web," these other parts of cyberspace re still teeming with life and have become home to many users, both benign and nefarious. With that said, here's all you need to know about the dark web, the deep web, and their differences.

Read more: Major PC Brands Ranked Worst To Best

What Is The Deep Web?

Right at the top of the internet is the surface web, which is made up of everything you can access with everyday browsers and search engines. But below the surface lies the deep web — the parts of the internet that aren't indexed. So they're right there on the internet, but you can't find them by doing a quick search. While it may come as a surprise to some, about 7,500 terabytes of all the information on the internet is on the deep web, compared to only 19 terabytes on the surface web. 

But how does this work? Let's break it down: Every search engine has bots, known as web crawlers or spiders, that go through the information on the internet and save it in the search engine's index. When you place a search on Google, the search can only look through indexed sites on the internet. However, some websites aren't indexed at all — this is what makes up the deep web. It's basically anything you can't find or access through a Google search. For example, this includes streaming services like Hulu  that require payment and registration, subscription-based news services or academic journals, and private databases of data from sites like PayPal or Cash App. The deep web is also home to the dark web, which is where you'll find a lot of the shady parts of the internet. 

What Is The Dark Web?

At the very bottom of the deep web is a small corner of the internet called the dark web. As threatening as it may seem, it only makes up a tiny portion of the deep web — less than 0.01%. Like the deep web, websites on the dark web aren't indexed, so they can't be opened using regular search engines. What makes the dark web different is that it can't be accessed with your everyday web browser — this anonymous and decentralized portion of the internet requires a special browser.

Dark net sites form a network that is protected by loads of encryption. Browsers like Tor (or The Onion Router) are able to peel back the layers of encryption, kind of like how you peel back the layers of an onion. Once it bypasses these layers, you get access to the content available on the dark web. The dark web is also extremely private as your online traffic goes through various servers all over the world before reaching a destination, and each server only knows the location of the one right before it, not its origin. So in theory, no one, not even the site you're accessing, can see your IP address, track your browsing history, or trace anything you do on the dark web back to you. 

Purpose And Intent

What exactly are the deep and the dark web used for? For starters, they both exist to offer people a higher degree of privacy than what is available on the surface web. The deep web is mostly used to store confidential information that would be vulnerable if easily accessible on the surface web. So unless you have the correct login details for certain information on the deep web, it can't be accessed. This is great because you can have peace of mind knowing that sensitive data — like your medical information or internet banking profile — is safe. `

On the other hand, the dark web takes privacy to a different level, allowing users to browse and communicate completely anonymously. When most people think of the dark web, they often think of illegal activity. Though the level of anonymity on the dark web has made it a haven for criminal dealings, that's not all it's used for. It's also used by regular people looking to browse privately and ensure their information or internet traffic isn't monitored or tracked. They're able to access books or academic journals that may not be available on the surface of the web and make payments using ostensibly anonymous currency like Bitcoin. Another category of dark web users includes journalists and whistleblowers who want to share confidential or sensitive information without fear of censorship or legal action.

How Are They Accessed?

Although you can access the surface web with your default search engine like Google or Bing, getting on the deep or dark web is a bit different. The deep web can be accessed using regular web browsers as long as you have the right credentials to access the information. However, what makes the deep web different from the surface web is that content is not indexed and cannot be found simply using search engines. But that's the fun part: You may not know it, but you already surf the deep web every day. When you log into your email, social media profile, or favorite video or music streaming platform, you're using the deep web. These pages remain exclusive to you as long as your username and password remain confidential.

The dark web, on the other hand, is a totally different ball game. Dark net websites can only be accessed using designated browsers like Tor or I2P, and they're different from those you come across on the surface web. For one, they usually don't have any recognizable URLs, just a string of numbers and letters. Also, all dark net sites end in .onion, not .com or .org. The most popular browser is Tor. Tor anonymizes your online activity by passing your connection through at least three points, making it a lot harder to trace anything back to you. Other dark net browsers like I2P and Freenet work in similar ways.  

Different Content Types

Search engine bots don't crawl and index every piece of information on the internet. There are some sites they are restricted from accessing, and others that just aren't relevant. But just because this information isn't indexed doesn't mean it isn't there. Most information on many websites is contained on the deep web — it is typically made up of private information from the individual pages or profiles of websites on the surface web. These pages are usually password protected and are only open to users with the right login credentials unique to the user they are registered to. 

The content on the deep web includes medical and financial records, content hidden behind paywalls like subscription-based services and academic journals — even your Google search results, or other generated pages that do not already exist on the deep web. On the dark web, you'll find a lot that you ordinarily would on the surface web — blogs, mail services, marketplaces, games, and forums — but these pages are entirely concealed. Many people use the dark web in the same way they use the surface web but probably opt for the former because they value privacy. But most of what goes on the dark web is illegal. Several  sites and marketplaces that are dedicated to the sale of illegal drugs, weapons, passports, credit card details, and even identities. You can even hire services like hacking. It's some really dangerous stuff.

While the deep web is unindexed, it's not necessarily anonymous. A lot of information on the deep web requires you to log in to an account to keep your data secure, but this also makes it traceable to your identity. Websites on the deep web still use cookies and trackers to collect data from users . Your IP address is also still visible when you visit a site on the deep web and your exact location can be pinpointed. So if your goal is to surf the web completely off the radar, the deep web won't be of much help. 

The dark web, however, is almost entirely anonymous. Whenever you visit a website or do pretty much anything on the internet, your IP address can be used to pinpoint your exact location. This is how websites and even the government track your internet activity. But if you use the dark web, your activity and communication are protected by layers of encryption so that when your connection reaches a website or server, it's difficult to find its original source. This anonymity is what makes the dark web a safe haven for hackers and other criminal activities. To maintain this ghost status, transactions on the dark web are usually done via cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which are also difficult to trace.

Security Risks

Most of the content on the deep web is mundane, perfectly legal, and not that different from what's on the surface web. But this doesn't mean you're completely safe. You still run the risk of falling victim to email fraud and scams on online shopping sites . There are also many suspicious links and websites that can infect your computer with viruses and malware. You might think you're downloading a song or a book, but the file is actually a trojan horse carrying dangerous software. All this can be easily avoided if you take safety measures when browsing the deep web to ensure your private accounts aren't compromised. Otherwise, your information might end up for sale on the dark web . 

The same can't be said for the dark web. The dark web is largely unregulated, which makes it easy for a lot of illegal online activity to go unchecked. You're exposed to the risk of scams and identity theft. Many sites on the dark web are secret ploys for different types of cyberattacks like malware, ransomware, or phishing exploits to obtain your information for fraudulent activity or sell. Due to how anonymous the dark web is, it's harder to find the source of these exploits. And because there are no concrete laws regulating the dark web, it's much harder to hold anyone accountable.

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A Dark Phenomenon: Cannibal Serial Killers

This essay is about understanding cannibal serial killers, examining their motivations, psychological profiles, and the societal factors that contribute to their disturbing behavior. It explains how these individuals violate social taboos by combining murder with consuming their victims’ flesh, often driven by a desire for dominance or gratification. Infamous cases, such as Jeffrey Dahmer and Albert Fish, illustrate the extreme pathology of these killers. The essay also discusses the role of childhood trauma, neurological abnormalities, and social isolation in shaping these tendencies, suggesting that early intervention and mental health support could prevent some individuals from progressing to violent behavior. Moreover, it highlights how media portrayals can influence public perception and emphasizes the importance of understanding this phenomenon to help reduce future tragedies.

How it works

Cannibal serial killers have long held a dark fascination in the public imagination, often occupying a special place in the annals of criminal history. Their crimes, characterized by a disturbing blend of murder and cannibalism, horrify and intrigue both the public and experts alike. Understanding the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to this behavior is key to exploring the depths of human violence and the reasons behind this rare yet terrifying phenomenon.

Cannibalism in the context of serial killing is particularly disturbing because it transgresses deeply ingrained social taboos.

The act often represents the culmination of extreme psychological pathology, where the individual derives satisfaction not only from murder but also from consuming the flesh of their victims. This behavior is sometimes motivated by a need to dominate or control their victims entirely, effectively reducing them to mere objects for gratification. For others, cannibalism is believed to confer special powers or provide a sense of communion with their victims.

One of the most infamous examples of a cannibal serial killer is Jeffrey Dahmer, who was active in the 1980s and early 1990s. Dahmer lured his victims into his apartment, where he would drug, kill, and dismember them. His crimes were gruesome, involving not only the consumption of flesh but also the preservation of body parts as trophies. Psychological assessments revealed deep-seated feelings of abandonment and alienation, which may have driven his need for power and control over his victims. Similarly, Albert Fish, an early 20th-century cannibal, exhibited extreme sadistic tendencies and viewed his crimes as a way to inflict pain and suffering while fulfilling his own twisted desires.

In attempting to explain the motives behind such individuals, experts often look to a combination of biological, psychological, and sociological factors. Neurological abnormalities, such as damage to the frontal lobe or limbic system, may inhibit impulse control and heighten aggressive tendencies. Childhood trauma and neglect are also recurrent themes among cannibal serial killers, often resulting in maladaptive coping mechanisms. Social isolation and a lack of positive role models can further exacerbate these tendencies. In some cases, an early fascination with violence, coupled with sexual dysfunction, plays a significant role in the development of such extreme behavior.

The study of cannibal serial killers raises broader questions about the nature of violence and the limits of human behavior. It challenges the assumption that evil is simply a product of “bad” individuals and instead prompts a closer look at the societal factors that can influence criminal behavior. Furthermore, these cases highlight the importance of early intervention and mental health support, as many cannibal serial killers exhibit clear warning signs during their formative years. Preventative measures, such as addressing childhood trauma and providing psychological counseling, may help identify at-risk individuals and reduce the likelihood of violent tendencies escalating to the extreme.

In recent decades, the portrayal of cannibal serial killers in literature and film has further shaped public perception. Characters like Hannibal Lecter in “The Silence of the Lambs” and Leatherface in “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” are vivid fictional representations of these individuals. While their actions may seem like the stuff of nightmares, their real-world counterparts are reminders of the darker aspects of human nature. At the same time, this media portrayal can risk trivializing or sensationalizing the issue, making it critical to maintain a balanced understanding of the underlying psychological and societal factors at play.

Cannibal serial killers remain an unsettling phenomenon that defies easy explanation. Their motivations are as varied as they are disturbing, often driven by deep psychological trauma, neurological dysfunction, or distorted social influences. By studying these individuals and the factors that contribute to their behavior, society can gain insight into preventing similar tragedies in the future. Despite their rarity, their cases force us to confront the far-reaching consequences of untreated trauma, social isolation, and the fragility of mental health.

Remember, this essay is a starting point for inspiration and further research. For more personalized assistance and to ensure your writing meets all academic standards, consider reaching out to professionals at EduBirdie .

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A Dark Phenomenon: Cannibal Serial Killers. (2024, May 12). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/a-dark-phenomenon-cannibal-serial-killers/

"A Dark Phenomenon: Cannibal Serial Killers." PapersOwl.com , 12 May 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/a-dark-phenomenon-cannibal-serial-killers/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). A Dark Phenomenon: Cannibal Serial Killers . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/a-dark-phenomenon-cannibal-serial-killers/ [Accessed: 13 May. 2024]

"A Dark Phenomenon: Cannibal Serial Killers." PapersOwl.com, May 12, 2024. Accessed May 13, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/a-dark-phenomenon-cannibal-serial-killers/

"A Dark Phenomenon: Cannibal Serial Killers," PapersOwl.com , 12-May-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/a-dark-phenomenon-cannibal-serial-killers/. [Accessed: 13-May-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). A Dark Phenomenon: Cannibal Serial Killers . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/a-dark-phenomenon-cannibal-serial-killers/ [Accessed: 13-May-2024]

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