Explore

Understanding the Ethical Factors of the Dark Web and TOR Protocol: A Student Lesson Workbook

Table of Contents

Introduction to the Dark Web and TOR Protocol

The Dark Web and Online Anonymity

Ethical Factors in the Dark Web

Discussion Questions

Practice Exercises

Resources:

⁠

Copy of Dark Web, Ethical Presentation Ethical Problem with the Dark Web Patrick Owens Spring 2019 CSE 2501, 8310 Dark Web The Dark Web or Darknet is part of the world wide web that requires special software to access and allows for total anonymity for both free speech and illicit activities (Davis). The Darknet prezi.com⁠

⁠

1. Introduction to the Dark Web and TOR Protocol

The Dark Web, often associated with criminal activities, is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and is accessible only through specific software, such as the TOR (The Onion Router) protocol. The TOR protocol enables users to browse the internet with complete anonymity, thus providing a platform for both legitimate and illicit activities.

2. The Dark Web and Online Anonymity

The Dark Web is a haven for online anonymity, which has both positive and negative consequences. On one hand, it provides protection to whistleblowers, journalists, and activists who want to avoid censorship and maintain their privacy. On the other hand, it enables criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and cybercrimes, to thrive.

3. Ethical Factors in the Dark Web

There are several ethical factors to consider when discussing the Dark Web and TOR protocol:

Privacy and security: While online privacy and security are important to uphold, they can be misused to facilitate criminal activities.

Censorship and freedom of information: The Dark Web can help bypass censorship and provide access to information in countries with strict control over the internet, but it can also lead to the spread of misinformation and illegal content.

Responsibility and accountability: The anonymity provided by the Dark Web raises questions about personal responsibility and accountability for one's actions.

4. Discussion Questions

Is it ethical to use the Dark Web for legitimate purposes, knowing that it also facilitates criminal activities?

How can the balance between online privacy and security be maintained without promoting illegal activities?

What role should governments play in regulating the Dark Web and TOR protocol?

How can the TOR protocol be improved to limit its misuse while preserving its anonymity features?

5. Practice Exercises

Research a real-life example of a positive use of the Dark Web (e.g., whistleblowing, journalism) and explain how anonymity was essential in that case.

Research a real-life example of a negative use of the Dark Web (e.g., drug trafficking, cybercrimes) and discuss the ethical concerns surrounding that case.

Each group will present their work as a CANVA Info Graphic

Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.

Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (

CtrlP

) instead.