Home Affairs says it wants more powers to police the dark web.

Home Affairs boss Mike Pezzullo has described the encrypted internet as “demonically evil”, while pushing for greater powers to fight online crime.

It is part of the Morrison government’s efforts to give the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) domestic powers. This would allow Australia’s top cyber cops to spy on Australians.

Mr Pezzullo last week warned a Senate estimates hearing about the dangers of the dark web.

“While connectivity is a positive force for global interaction and prosperity, in the shadowy creases of the surface web lies the demonically evil phenomenon known as the dark web,” he told the committee.

“The only way to hunt and disrupt on the dark web is to better use the lawful capabilities of our law enforcement and technical intelligence functions in closer partnership and under strict oversight.”

The home affairs secretary alluded to plans for the ASD to turn its eyes on the people it is meant to protect.

Analysts say he appeared to foreshadow a government announcement in the near future.