Ask AI: Exploring the Role of the Dark Web and Social Media in Facilitating Cybercrime: A Case Study of Online Fraud and Identity Theft

Abstract The purpose of this study is to explore the role of the dark web and social media in facilitating cybercrime, with a particular focus on online fraud and identity theft. There is a growing concern that the dark web, as well as social media, are increasingly being used by criminals to perpetrate crimes, such as identity theft and online fraud. To address this concern, this study uses a case study approach to examine the activities that take place on the dark web and social media networks which support the facilitation of cybercrime. Specifically, the study provides an examination of the types of services and technologies being used by criminals, and an overview of the tactics and strategies used by criminals to facilitate their criminal activities. The results indicate that the dark web and social media have become integral parts of the cybercrime economy, providing criminals with access to a wide range of products and services to support their criminal activities. The results also suggest that criminals are taking advantage of the anonymity and ease of access to a global community afforded by the dark web and social media networks to perpetrate crimes such as identity theft and online fraud. Finally, this study highlights the need for further research into the role of the dark web and social media in facilitating cybercrime.