NEWS: A ransomware group allegedly leaked sensitive files related to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) on the Dark Web, highlighting rising cyber threats to India's critical infrastructure.

About the Dark Web

• The Dark Web is a hidden part of the internet that is not indexed by conventional search engines.
• It can only be accessed using specialized software such as the Tor (The Onion Router) browser.
• It provides anonymity to both users and website hosts, making identities and activities difficult to trace.

Legitimate Uses

• Protects privacy and anonymity.
• Enables secure communication for journalists, whistleblowers, and activists, especially under repressive regimes.

Major Concerns

Used for cybercrime, including:

• Sale of stolen or leaked data
• Ransomware operations
• Illegal online marketplaces
• Distribution of hacking tools and malware
• Drug trafficking and other illicit activities