Appendix A: Tor Further Investigation
Exploring i2p Darknet Sites: A Guide to the Invisible Web
Among the many data systems utilizing this network is the World Wide Web (WWW). When you use a web browser to visit a site like TechSpot, your computer is requesting files hosted on a remote machine, somewhere else on the planet. There have been many other types of scam sites as well, such as those offering assassination services or bitcoin stealing scams, so it is reasonable to assume that the red rooms are scams as well.
It does not connect to the internet directly, acting instead as a completely separate network layer on top of the internet. In that sense, I2P is very much a closed loop – designed for users to interact anonymously within the network, but not outside. Dread is a Reddit-style forum that includes conversations on criminal topics that would be banned from a website on the clear web.
It operates using a friend-to-friend topology, similar to GNUnet, but with better anonymity and new content integration. The I2P network is accessible through a special browser, and users can access various darknet sites within the network. These sites can range from discussion forums to marketplaces, and they offer a level of anonymity that is not possible on the regular internet. Another darknet option for file sharing is RetroShare, which also uses a friend-to-friend topology.
The Internet is a vast expanse, and within it lies a hidden segment known as the darknet. One of the most intriguing networks within this realm is the I2P (Invisible Internet Project), designed to facilitate anonymous communication and browsing.
In short, if you can access the dark web resource you’re looking for with I2P, you should use I2P. You’ll most likely find that Tor gives you access to many more dark web sites. Arguably, the biggest weakness of Tor is that an adversary could potentially control enough (ostensibly) volunteer-run nodes to threaten the anonymity of its users.
What is I2P?
Once a person finds their way onto the Darknet, they can access a variety of websites full of information, including forums focused on hacking, security, programming, stolen data, and geopolitical issues, to name a few. These forums are frequented by criminals, security professionals, journalists, and those who wish to learn about hacking. While a number of forums specialize in a specific topic, many forums offer users the ability to discuss a wide range of topics with each other. Often times the sale of access to various organizations’ servers are done through forums rather than marketplaces as it offers buyers and sellers a better chance to communicate prior to the sale taking place. Dark Web is part or division of the Deep web, that is intentionally hidden from normal search engines. To access it, you need special software, configurations, or authorization.
Based on data that we have generated from the TOR metrics, we find that the daily users of TOR software in Kosovo during January to December 2018 have been near 90. This cipher is increased and decreased during this period of time (Figure 3). Different SNA techniques have developed for examining forum posting and website relationships. The main focus is on understanding the “dark networks” and their unique properties [10] . Detailed coding schemes have been developed to evaluate the extremist websites and terrorist contents. The free plan comes with Tor-friendly servers in the US, the Netherlands, Romania, Poland, and Japan.
I2P is an anonymous overlay network that allows for censorship-resistant, peer-to-peer communication. It differs from other anonymity networks like Tor in several key aspects:
- Architecture: I2P uses a unique architecture where data is routed through a series of volunteer hosts rather than a centralized set of nodes.
- Peer-to-Peer: Unlike traditional browsing, users send data directly to each other, enhancing privacy and security.
- Long-Term Design: It’s geared towards long-term anonymous communication rather than solely providing access to hidden services.
Accessing I2P Darknet Sites
To access i2p darknet sites, users must first install the I2P software. After installation, one can browse .i2p websites which are only accessible through this network. Here’s a step-by-step process:
- Download and install the I2P software from the official website.
- Run the I2P router and configure your network settings.
- Access the I2P Console through your browser.
- Use the built-in web browser or configure other browsers for I2P.
Popular I2P Darknet Sites
Within the I2P network, numerous sites offer various services, from forums to illicit marketplaces. Here are some types of popular i2p darknet sites you might encounter:
- Marketplaces: A platform for buying and selling goods and services anonymously.
- Forums: Discussion platforms where users can exchange ideas or information anonymously.
- Blogging Sites: Anonymous blogging platforms for sharing personal thoughts or information.
- Whistleblowing Platforms: Secure channels for whistleblowers to share information without revealing their identities.
Benefits of I2P
Engaging with the i2p darknet sites has its advantages:
- Anonymity: Users are more protected than on conventional web browsers.
- Decentralization: Lack of central points of failure improves resilience against attacks.
- Censorship Resistance: Users can communicate and share without the fear of censorship.
Risks and Considerations
While the I2P network offers significant privacy benefits, it also comes with risks:
- The dark web and Tor are often used by journalists and whistleblowers, including Edward Snowden himself, to exchange sensitive information.
- SOCRadar provides a thorough Dark Web Monitoring solution that enables organizations to identify and mitigate threats across the surface, deep and dark web.
- Reddit is also a valuable resource for finding the dark net or deep website you’re looking for.
- “Anonymity creates the purest forms of meritocracy that can exist in human society currently,” he added.
- Illicit Activity: Many sites on I2P may engage in illegal activities, attracting scrutiny from authorities.
- Malicious Sites: Users may encounter harmful content or phishing attempts.
- Limited Content: Compared to the surface web, the content available on I2P can be limited and sometimes unreliable.
FAQs about I2P Darknet Sites
Q1: Is using I2P illegal?
A1: Using I2P itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities on I2P is against the law.
Q2: How can I stay safe while using I2P?
A2: Always ensure your software is updated, be cautious about the sites you visit, and avoid sharing personal information.
Q3: Can I access the regular internet through I2P?
A3: Yes, I2P can connect to the surface web, but it’s primarily optimized for accessing .i2p sites.
Q4: How does I2P enhance my privacy?
A4: I2P encrypts your data and routes it through multiple nodes, making it difficult to trace your online activity.
Conclusion
Exploring i2p darknet sites provides a unique glimpse into a world of anonymity and privacy. While it offers significant benefits, users must navigate this space carefully, weighing the advantages against potential risks.
