What are the consequences of viewing illegal content in the darknet?
March 9, 2024 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Wanda Hartmann
Dear Internet and Computer Law Attorney,
I am reaching out to you because I recently discovered that there are many illegal contents in the Darknet and I am unsure about the consequences of viewing such content.
My name is Hans Breitwieser and out of curiosity, I visited the Darknet and accidentally came across sites that offer illegal content such as drug trafficking, weapons sales, or child pornography. I have no intention of consuming or distributing such content, but I am concerned if just viewing these sites could have legal consequences.
I am aware that the Darknet is a very opaque and dangerous place, and I want to ensure that I do not unintentionally get into legal trouble. Therefore, I am wondering what legal consequences there could be if I view illegal content in the Darknet, even if I have no intention of using or distributing that content.
I would like to know if I have already committed a crime just by visiting such sites, and what steps I can take to ensure that I comply with the law. Are there ways to protect myself from accidental violations and how can I ensure that I behave legally online?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Hans Breitwieser
Dear Mr. Breitwieser,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the legal consequences of visiting illegal sites in the Darknet. It is understandable that you are concerned and want to make sure that you do not unintentionally commit a crime.
First and foremost, I want to emphasize that entering and viewing illegal content in the Darknet is generally not illegal, as long as you do not actively participate in illegal activities such as purchasing illegal goods or distributing child pornography. Simply viewing pages alone usually does not lead to legal consequences.
However, it is important to note that the Darknet is a place where many criminal activities take place, and there is a risk that you may unknowingly come across illegal content. Therefore, it is advisable to be aware of which sites you visit and make sure not to support any illegal activities.
To protect yourself from unintentional violations and ensure that you behave legally on the internet, I recommend the following steps:
1. Avoid visiting sites in the Darknet that you know offer illegal content, such as drug trafficking, arms sales, or child pornography. It is better to stay away from such sites to minimize any risks.
2. Make sure that your computer or device is equipped with a firewall and up-to-date antivirus software to protect yourself from potential threats.
3. Familiarize yourself with the applicable laws and regulations regarding entering and using the Darknet to ensure that you are acting in accordance with the law.
If you still have concerns or have further questions on the topic, I am available in my online office hours to provide you with additional legal advice.
I hope that my response has clarified your questions and put your mind at ease. Thank you for your trust and attention.
Sincerely,
Wanda Hartmann
Attorney specializing in Internet and Computer Law
