Frequent Flyers of the Dark Web: Examining the Role of Attitudes, Mental Health, and Social Predictors

• In Event: Exploring Cyber Offending Pathways: Motivations, Traits, and Tactics

Abstract

The Dark Web has drawn heightened attention for its enhanced anonymity and association with various illicit online activities. While research has examined various Dark Web marketplaces and the variety of products/services exchanged through these online channels, empirical research exploring Dark Web users and the motivations behind individuals' frequency of Dark Web use remains scant. Using a large sample of Internet users (n = 2000), the current study sought to understand the factors significantly predicting individuals' use and access of the Dark Web. Findings revealed that higher levels of deviant online peer associations, greater acceptance of violence, and higher levels of paranoia all significantly increased individuals' likelihood of using the Dark Web more frequently. In contrast, individuals with more negative views of the Dark Web were significantly less likely to frequent the Dark Web. These findings underscore the highly understudied connections between aspects of mental health, deviant peer association, and Dark Web usage. Relatedly, these findings can inform targeted interventions for vulnerable users navigating the Dark Web’s anonymous landscape. The implications of this study for both research and policy are discussed in detail.

Authors

• Raymond Partin, University of Alabama

• Jin Lee, George Mason University

• Peter Lehmann, Sam Houston State University

• Ryan Charles Meldrum, Florida Atlantic University