A quick rundown of the dark web: What your business needs to know

The dark web is often thought of as a hotbed of cybercrime. However, there’s so much more to it than stolen data and shady transactions. It’s important to understand the dark web in terms of potential threats it can pose, as well as common misconceptions about its use.

Dark web: What is it, and does it pose a threat?

While the dark web is a part of the internet, it is hidden from normal users and is not indexed by any search engines. It requires certain configurations and/or special software to be accessed. It is used for a variety of illicit activities, primarily dealing drugs, weapons, and stolen credit card information.

The dark web has been linked to organized crime networks, terrorist groups, and hackers. In fact, cybercrime groups use the dark web to hire IT talents. A recent study by Kaspersky revealed that hacking gangs post job ads for positions such as software developers and “skilled attack specialists” on numerous dark web sites. Many of these job ads offer attractive compensation, with salaries ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 per month, making them irresistible to hackers for hire.

Due to the hidden nature of the dark web, the amount of data shared on it can be difficult to quantify accurately. This makes it more difficult for businesses to trace leaked or stolen information, which could be passing hands on the dark web.

Individuals are also at risk of identity theft or extortion if they have personal information stored on the dark web. For instance, hackers can use login credentials they got on the dark web to launch ransomware and phishing scams on individuals and businesses.

Can the dark web be used for good?

Despite being known as a hub of illegal activity, the dark web offers legitimate (i.e., legal) uses, such as providing platforms that serve as anonymous messaging boards and forums used by whistleblowers and journalists.

For example, some organizations have used the dark web for encrypted communication and other secure activities, such as sharing confidential documents or communicating with sources in repressive countries. It is also possible to use the dark web to host “darknets,” or networks of computers connected through Tor, a free software that anonymizes data and makes it hard for anyone to track its origin.

What are the myths and misconceptions regarding the dark web?

Given its mysterious nature, the dark web is surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions regarding its existence and purpose. Here are some of the most common ones:

It’s illegal to access the dark web

Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, as it is just a collection of websites hosted on special networks and services that make them difficult to track. However, any activities carried out on the dark web may be deemed illegal, depending on the jurisdiction.

Its main purpose is to help criminals carry out crimes

While it’s true that criminals may use the dark web to facilitate their criminal activities, this does not mean that it is only used for such purposes. The dark web can be used for a variety of non-illegal activities, such as bypassing censorship laws or accessing content not available to the public.

It’s impossible to be tracked on the dark web

It may be more difficult for someone to track your activities on the dark web, but it is not impossible. This is why it is always best to be mindful of your activities while on the dark web and take precautions to protect yourself from being tracked.

Illegal content is easily accessible on the dark web

Although the dark web provides access to some contraband, it is not as simple as just typing a website’s URL into your browser and obtaining them. The dark web consists of multiple layers, each with different levels of security measures in place.

The dark web and the deep web are the same

The deep web is something else entirely, and the dark web is only a small subset of it.

The dark web is an intriguing and complex ecosystem that can be used for both good and bad. It is vital to stay informed about the potential risks that come with using this ecosystem, as well as the opportunities for conducting secure activities online. Despite the many risks associated with using the dark web, there are ways to protect yourself when using it.

Want to learn more about how you can protect your Utah or Salt Lake City business from numerous threats, including those posed by criminals on the dark web? Request a free consultation from NetWize’s IT security experts today.

How can companies optimize a flexible workspace for hybrid workers?

Many of today’s employees have become accustomed to a hybrid work setup, making it essential for organizations to optimize their workspace to meet the needs of their hybrid workforce. Having a flexible office space today is especially crucial; a study reveals that many people prefer to be in a flexible office space 50% of the time and to reduce remote work time to around 45%.

Here’s what you need to know about designing a flexible workspace for hybrid workers and how you can optimize one to meet your team’s needs.

What is a flexible workspace?

A flexible office space is one that gives employees the opportunity to choose and/or customize their workstations. In this kind of workspace, they can opt for whatever setup works best for their needs or preferences, instead of being constrained by a permanent desk assigned to them, like in traditional offices.

But using flexible workspaces isn’t just about convenience. It offers the following advantages to your business too:

Better collaboration – A flexible workspace provides hybrid teams with physical spaces where they can meet up and come together every once in a while. Having physical spaces that are conducive to collaboration and teamwork increases productivity, innovation, and team morale.
Improved work experience – Working from home can be isolating, so having access to places outside the home where employees can work together with colleagues can make them feel more energetic, motivated, and creative. It also lets them take breaks from their home environment when needed, which helps refresh their minds.
Cost savings – Your company saves money on utility costs by making it easier for businesses to scale back on electricity use when certain areas of the workspace aren’t being used.
Adaptability – With a flexible workspace, teams don’t have to worry about finding new rental spaces if they need more space temporarily. All they need to do is access existing coworking facilities with minimal effort or cost involved.

Ways to optimize a flexible workspace

Here are some ideas to get you started on optimizing your workplace for hybrid work:

Create flexible workstations

Flexible workstations with features such as ergonomic chairs and standing desks can help employees in many different ways. For instance, ergonomic chairs can improve posture and reduce strain on neck or back muscles, which can help prevent fatigue or physical discomfort. Standing desks provide a change of scenery from a regular desk while also promoting good posture and energy levels.

A flexible workstation can enable employees to effortlessly adjust their desks and chairs to the height they’re most comfortable with OR to the height that’s best suited to their own anatomy.

Choose an open-plan layout

An open-plan layout provides ultimate flexibility — you can rearrange the workspace to suit the size and purpose of your team. Take into account how many people will join your team in the future, as well as the activities they’ll need space for.

Ensure easy accessibility

It’s important to make sure that your flexible office space is easily accessible to employees. With the right setup, they will have a much smoother transition between working in person and remotely.

When it comes to commuting, having easy access points to your office can make a world of difference. Thus, your workspace location should have things like bike lanes, public transport links, or close proximity to car parks to allow your hybrid team members to easily reach the office when they need to.

Within the office, you should make sure that there are no physical barriers between different areas of the workspace. This will enable employees to move freely and easily between different sections of the office.

Use workplace management technology

A workplace management program can help employees maximize the use of on-site spaces. By using one, they can easily discover and book available desks or meeting rooms suited to them with a few taps. They will also be kept in the loop about who’s planning to be at work on certain days, thereby allowing them to decide whether they should be at the office on the same days that their teammates are.

By optimizing your flexible workspace, your company can create a workplace culture that maximizes the strengths of your hybrid workforce while simultaneously reducing overhead costs associated with maintaining traditional office environments. If you need help setting up and managing technology for your flexible workspace, contact the IT professionals at NetWize today.