A Review Paper on Dark Web Forensics: Investigating Cybercrimes in the Hidden Internet

The dark web, a concealed segment of the internet accessible only through specialized software(browser) like Tor, has evolved into a digital ecosystem that facilitates both legitimate privacy-centric use and widespread criminal enterprise. This review explores the forensic investigation challenges and methodologies associated with cybercrimes on the dark web. By synthesizing insights from recent studies, it examines the architecture and dynamics of the dark web, the typologies of illicit activities it harbors—including trafficking in narcotics, weapons, and stolen data—and the role of cryptocurrencies in facilitating anonymous transactions. Moreover, it emphasizes emerging forensic strategies leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enhance detection, classification, and disruption of dark web criminal activities. The paper highlights the multidisciplinary convergence of cybersecurity, digital forensics, and data science needed to combat the evolving threats in this hidden layer of the internet.