The dark web allows for anonymous browsing but has privacy risks. It can only be accessed through special browsers like Tor that hide a user's identity and location. While the dark web protects anonymity, law enforcement has found ways to de-anonymize users through vulnerabilities in the Tor network or malware. Common uses of the dark web include drugs, weapons, child pornography, and hacking tools, though it also enables whistleblowing. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are often used for transactions on the dark web due to the anonymity provided.