Online Reporter
Jacqueline Ntaka, [email protected]
THE internet is commonly divided into three layers: the surface web, the deep web and the dark web.
While the surface web consists of websites accessible through standard search engines such as Google, the dark web is a hidden part of the internet that requires specialised software, such as Tor, to access. Although the dark web was originally developed to provide anonymity and protect privacy, it has increasingly become associated with criminal activities, making it a growing concern for governments, businesses and ordinary citizens around the world, including in Zimbabwe.
One of the greatest dangers of the dark web is its ability to conceal the identities of users. This anonymity has created an environment where cybercriminals can operate with reduced risk of detection. Illegal marketplaces on the dark web are known to facilitate the sale of stolen personal information, counterfeit documents, hacking tools, illegal drugs and other illicit goods and services. Criminal networks often use encrypted communication channels and cryptocurrencies to carry out transactions, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to trace offenders.
The rise of cybercrime linked to the dark web poses significant risks to individuals and businesses. Personal data stolen through phishing scams, malware attacks or data breaches can be traded on dark web forums and markets. Victims may suffer financial losses, identity theft and reputational damage. Businesses can also face serious consequences if sensitive customer information is exposed. As more organisations digitise their operations, the threat of cybercrime continues to grow, increasing the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.
For Zimbabwe, the dangers of the dark web are becoming more relevant as internet usage and digital financial services expand. The country has witnessed a steady increase in mobile banking, online transactions and internet connectivity. While these developments support economic growth and financial inclusion, they also create new opportunities for cybercriminals. Stolen banking credentials, personal identification details and corporate data can find their way onto dark web platforms, potentially exposing Zimbabwean citizens and organisations to fraud and cyberattacks.
The dark web can also facilitate other forms of transnational crime that affect Zimbabwe. Criminal groups may use hidden online networks to coordinate activities such as human trafficking, wildlife crime, smuggling and financial fraud. Zimbabwe’s location within regional trade and migration routes makes it vulnerable to organised criminal syndicates that increasingly rely on digital technologies to evade detection. As criminals adopt more sophisticated online methods, authorities face greater challenges in investigating and preventing these offences.
Furthermore, the dark web presents risks to national security. Extremist groups, cybercriminal organisations and other malicious actors can use anonymous platforms to communicate, recruit members and share harmful content. Although Zimbabwe has not experienced the same scale of cyber threats seen in some developed nations, the country’s growing digital footprint makes it increasingly important to monitor and address these risks proactively.
To combat the dangers associated with the dark web, Zimbabwe must continue strengthening its cybersecurity framework. This includes improving digital literacy among citizens, investing in cybercrime investigations, enhancing cooperation with international law enforcement agencies and encouraging organisations to adopt stronger data protection practices. Public awareness campaigns can also play a key role in helping users recognise online threats and protect their personal information.
l Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected]
