Training launched to help investigate criminal activity on dark web

The College of Policing has launched new training to help frontline teams investigate criminal activity on the dark web and metaverse. The training, developed by the college’s Digital Intelligence and Investigation Programme, aims to educate staff on the differences between the surface web, deep web, and dark web, as well as how anonymizing software works and the risks associated with the dark web.

According to the college, navigating the dark web can be challenging for frontline teams as it is accessed using specially designed, anonymizing browser software. The dark web is known for hosting illegal activities such as drug dealing, the sale of weapons, stolen personal and financial data, and sites hosting child sexual abuse material.

In addition to training on the dark web, the college has also developed training on ‘deep fake’ content, which uses artificial intelligence to change how people look and sound in media. This technology poses challenges for officers and staff in identifying and investigating crimes involving deep fakes.

The National Policing Digital Strategy 2020-2030 highlights the importance of addressing the digital element in over 90% of reported crimes. The new training on the dark web and deep fake content is available on College Learn to support frontline officers, staff, and volunteers in responding to digital elements of investigations.

With the rise of technology and digital advancements, staying informed and educated on these topics is crucial for law enforcement to effectively combat criminal activity in the digital realm.