Dangers of the Dark Web: Kill List, with Carl Miller
Jan 22, 2025
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Join Carl Miller, an award-winning journalist and dark web expert, as he unveils the chilling realities of the internet's underbelly. He discusses his harrowing experiences with hitman websites and the disturbing trend of individuals seeking hired killers. Learn about a real-life kill list investigation following a murder, where journalists faced ethical dilemmas and the challenge of notifying potential victims. Miller emphasizes the vital need for awareness and the psychological toll of navigating such dangerous digital landscapes.
Carl Miller emphasizes the mischaracterization of the Dark Web, urging a clear distinction between it and the deep web to understand online threats.
The involvement of personal traumas in seeking hitman-for-hire services reveals the dark motivations that can drive individuals to extreme actions.
Miller's proactive approach to journalism underlines the ethical dilemmas faced when intervening in life-threatening situations, reflecting evolving responsibilities in digital media.
Deep dives
Understanding the Dark Net
The dark net refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by search engines, commonly accessed using specific browsers like Tor, which anonymizes users. This hidden section can harbor a vast range of activities, including illegal ones, due to its lack of transparency. Award-winning journalist Carl Miller emphasizes the importance of differentiating between the dark net and the deep web, explaining that many headlines either exaggerate or trivialize the dangers present in this space. This leads to misunderstandings about the scope of criminal activity, which can include any form of illicit behavior imaginable.
The Nature of Online Crime
Miller highlights the complexities of cybercrime, particularly regarding hitman-for-hire websites that may not deliver on their promises. Through an investigation alongside technology researchers, he discovered numerous attempts by individuals looking to hire assassins, often driven by personal grievances. Most strikingly, many orders included deeply personal information about intended targets, demonstrating how trauma and obsession can culminate in extreme actions. The perceived anonymity of these sites often leads users to share sensitive details, including logistical information and even justification for the requested actions.
The Role of Investigative Journalism
The initiative taken by Miller and his team exemplifies a shift from traditional journalism towards a more hands-on approach in preventing harm. When they uncovered individuals on a kill list, they felt an immense responsibility to act, which led them to contact the targets directly. This process was fraught with anxiety and danger, as they needed to communicate life-threatening information without inciting panic or attracting the attention of those responsible for the threats. Their proactive decision-making reflects the evolving nature of journalism in the digital age, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas that arise when human lives are at stake.
Challenges with Law Enforcement
Miller's coordination with law enforcement varied significantly across jurisdictions, complicating the pursuit of justice and victim protection. Many police forces were initially skeptical of the information provided, sometimes viewing them as unreliable sources instead of collaborators. It wasn't until they formed a strategic partnership with the FBI that their efforts gained traction, allowing for more efficient investigations. This struggle illustrates the necessity for enhanced cooperation in combating transnational cybercrime, as established protocols often falter in the face of novel digital threats.
Implications for Personal Safety
In light of the revelations surrounding the dark net and online threats, Miller stresses the importance of personal digital security. He urges listeners to conduct self-assessments on their online presence, identifying vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. Additionally, he advocates for a mindful approach to social media engagement, warning against the dangers of outrage-driven behavior that can cloud judgment and foster impulsive reactions. By cultivating awareness and adopting better practices online, individuals can protect themselves from the expanding threats that arise within digital spaces.
We've all heard of the Dark Web -- and it's often mischaracterized in popular media. But what happens when you find a site people genuinely think will help them pay for murder? In tonight's special interview, Ben and Matt join the award-winning tech researcher and author Carl Miller to learn more about his harrowing journey into the world of online crime, as he and his team race to save lives across multiple countries in his newest podcast, Kill List.
