Glossary of Dark Web Terms

We compiled a glossary of common dark web terms. This will help the reader understand our articles better.

Core Concepts

Dark Web — This is the part of the internet not indexed by search engines. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access.

Deep Web — This refers to all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines. It includes online banking, webmail, and private databases. The dark web is a small part of the deep web.

Surface Web — This is the part of the internet accessible via standard search engines. It includes public websites and online content.

Tor (The Onion Router) — This is free, open-source software for anonymous communication. It directs internet traffic through a worldwide volunteer overlay network.

Onion Services (formerly Hidden Services) — These are services, like websites, accessible only through the Tor network. Their IP addresses remain concealed.

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Tools and Technologies

Bridge — This is a secret Tor relay not listed in the public Tor directory. It helps users bypass censorship and access Tor when it is blocked.

Clearnet — This term refers to the regular internet, accessible without special software. It is often used in contrast to the dark web.

Cryptocurrency — This is a digital or virtual currency secured by cryptography. It is often used for transactions on the dark web due to its pseudonymous nature.

PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) — This is an encryption program for secure communication. It is used to encrypt and decrypt messages, files, and emails.

VPN (Virtual Private Network) — This extends a private network across a public network. It enables users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network.

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Activities and Culture

Darknet Market — This is a commercial website on the dark web. It operates via darknets such as Tor and often sells illicit goods.

Doxing — This is the act of publicly revealing private personal information about an individual or organization. This information is typically gathered from the internet.

Exit Node — This is the final relay in the Tor circuit. It sends traffic to its destination on the clearnet.

OpSec (Operations Security) — This refers to practices and procedures designed to protect sensitive information. It involves identifying critical information and analyzing threats.

Phishing — This is a type of social engineering attack. Attackers trick users into revealing sensitive information, often through deceptive emails or websites.