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The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, including drug trafficking, arms dealing, human trafficking, and illicit trade in stolen data and counterfeit goods. Marketplaces like the now-defunct Silk Road gained notoriety for facilitating such transactions, operating much like an underground eBay for contraband. Beyond criminal enterprises, dark websites also provide a platform for whistleblowers, political dissidents, and journalists operating in oppressive regimes, offering them a secure way to communicate and share information without fear of surveillance.
Despite its infamy, the dark web is a small fraction of the internet. However, its secretive nature makes it a haven for cybercriminals, making it a focal point for law enforcement agencies worldwide. The dark web's anonymity also raises ethical concerns, as it challenges the balance between privacy rights and the need to prevent illegal activities.