What Is the Dark Web? Is Your Personal Information for Sale There?

The Dark Web is a hidden part of the internet that cannot be accessed through regular browsers or search engines like Google or Bing. The web is generally divided into three layers:

• Surface Web: Websites we use every day.
• Deep Web: Data visible only after login.
• Dark Web: A secret, encrypted part of the web.

To access the Dark Web, you need a special browser such as TOR (The Onion Router). TOR hides your IP address, allowing you to browse anonymously.

The Original Purpose of the Dark Web

Initially, the Dark Web was created for legitimate uses such as:

• Secure and private communication systems
• Protection for journalists and whistleblowers
• Sharing censored or sensitive information

However, over time, it has become a hub for illegal and criminal activities.

Illegal Activities Found on the Dark Web

Illegally Sold Items

• Stolen credit card data
• Bank account details
• Passport and ID scans
• Hacked emails or social media accounts
• Drugs, weapons, and fake IDs

Services Offered

• Hack-for-hire
• Ransomware-as-a-Service
• Fake document creation support

How Does Your Information End Up on the Dark Web?

1. Through Data Breaches

When websites like Yahoo, Facebook, or LinkedIn are hacked, user data is stolen and sold on the Dark Web.

External Tool:
👉 Have I Been Pwned — check if your email has been compromised.

2. Through Phishing Attacks

Scammers trick users into sharing passwords, OTPs, or banking details via fake emails or messages.

3. Through Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi often lacks encryption, allowing hackers to intercept your data.

How to Check If Your Data Is Being Sold on the Dark Web

Useful Tools

• Have I Been Pwned
• Firefox Monitor
• Dehashed.com

These tools allow you to check if your email or phone number has been exposed in a data leak.

How to Protect Yourself from the Dark Web

Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Always create secure passwords and enable 2FA for all important accounts.

 Regularly Monitor Your Accounts

Stay alert and scan your accounts frequently to detect data theft early.

 Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, keeping hackers away from your data.

 Beware of Phishing Links

Never click on suspicious links or open unknown emails.

 The Situation of the Dark Web in Nepal

Even in Nepal, cybercrime is increasing. Many Nepali users’ data have appeared in international data breaches.

 Example 1 – 2021 Data Breach

In April 2021, Facebook suffered a massive breach affecting over 500 million users, including around 500,000 Nepali accounts. Leaked data included names, phone numbers, locations, birthdays, emails, and profile information.

 Example 2 – June 2025 Data Leak

In June 2025, a major leak reportedly exposed data of 1.5 billion Facebook (Meta) users, allegedly containing names, emails, phone numbers, gender, and relationship status. Although Meta has not confirmed it, cybersecurity experts have verified the leak as serious.

 Conclusion — Dark Web Is a Threat and a Wake-Up Call

Awareness is your first line of defense.
To stay safe:

• Change your passwords regularly
• Use a VPN for secure browsing
• Pay attention to the security of the websites you use

 FAQ: Common Questions About the Dark Web

Q1: Is the Dark Web illegal?
The Dark Web itself is not illegal, but illegal activities within it are punishable by law.

Q2: Can using TOR Browser cause issues?
Yes, ISPs or government agencies can detect TOR usage, which might raise suspicion.

Q3: Is it safe to explore the Dark Web?
Not for ordinary users. It’s a risky and sensitive space that should be avoided.

 Important Note

This article is for educational and awareness purposes only. It does not promote or encourage illegal activities. Always follow the law, stay safe, and be a responsible digital citizen.