Market Features
Understanding the Dark Web
Though volumes observed by Elliptic are comparatively insignificant to other facets of the global fentanyl trade, the failure of dark web markets to enforce their own rules raises the risk of them becoming a key facilitator in the future. For over a year, Howell and Mower received kilogram-quantities of cocaine from a darknet cocaine supplier and then re-sold that cocaine to their own customers in Colorado and across the country via their own darknet vendor account. Together, Howell and Mower shipped nearly 50 kilograms of cocaine to their customers through the U.S.
This study aims at presenting the added value of combining digital, chemical and physical information to reconstruct sellers’ activities. In particular, this research focuses on Evolution, one of the most popular cryptomarkets active from January 2014 to March 2015. Evolution source code files were analysed using Python scripts based on regular expressions to extract information about listings (i.e., sales proposals) and sellers. The results revealed more than 48,000 listings and around 2700 vendors claiming to send illicit drug products from 70 countries. The most frequent categories of illicit drugs offered by vendors were cannabis-related products (around 25%) followed by ecstasy (MDA, MDMA) and stimulants (cocaine, speed). The results show that digital information, such as concealment methods and shipping country, seems accurate.
“If you’re buying a TV or you’re buying a video game … you can check reviews for that item,” he says. “You can go through the vendor’s page and check all of his or her reviews as well…. When a new seller comes along, he’ll look at reviews online, both on the dark and open web.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. This hidden part of the web can host various activities, both legal and illegal, including the sale of illicit substances.
How to Buy Drugs on the Dark Web
These empirical studies focused on the trust factors in online purchasing, which consumers considered indispensable for safe online shopping. To facilitate the application, we have created seven categories and classified the trust factors into these categories (see Table ​Table11). People wanting to access the darknet, often use Tor, Freenet and I2P (darknet software). The most popular and well know is Tor, which was originally called The Onion Router.
Purchasing drugs on the dark web involves several steps that require careful planning and security measures. Below are the essential steps to consider:
1. Preparing Your Device
When using an on-demand interface, the speed and simplicity of the payment transaction can make or break a sale (Ilmudeen, 2019). On most legal web markets, offline and online payment alternatives are available to customers. Offline payment is a confidence-building factor for those who do not dare or are unable to pay online and those buying higher-value products. Meanwhile, online payment is widely popular and is usually provided by reputable financial institutions, which can have a confidence-boosting role. However, cryptocurrencies are traceable to varying degrees; for example, Bitcoin is easier to trace than Monero (Bahamazava & Nanda, 2022).
This is the new breed of dark net markets—one that will make the next big international takedown much harder to pull off. The site’s limited number of vendor registrations also created a level of exclusivity to the site. The trade-off was that their sales value never exceeded at most a fifth of AlphaBay’s peak. Engstrom, who faces a mandatory-minimum of 10 years in federal prison if convicted, later told pretrial services that he owned somewhere between $8 million and $10 million in cryptocurrency. To prevent their data being traded on this sinister version of the internet, organisations need to ensure that they have appropriate controls and monitoring measures in place. A layered approach should include anti-cyberattack technology alongside staff training and awareness campaigns.
Before you access the dark web, it is important to secure your device:
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet traffic, providing anonymity.
- Install Tor Browser: This is the primary tool used to navigate the dark web.
- Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure your operating system and applications are up to date to avoid vulnerabilities.
2. Accessing Dark Web Markets
Once you have secured your device, you can access various dark web markets where drugs are available:
- Marketplaces: Look for established dark web marketplaces known for drug transactions.
- Use Reddit and Forums: Communities often discuss and share links to reputable marketplaces.
- Search Engines for the Dark Web: Tools like “Ahmia” and “NotEvil” can help locate these sites.
3. Creating an Account
After identifying a marketplace, creating an account is the next step:
- Email Account: Use an anonymous email service to register.
- Strong Password: Create a unique password to enhance security.
4. Choosing Payment Methods
Dark web transactions typically require anonymity in payment:
- Cryptocurrency: Bitcoin is the most popular option, but some markets also accept Monero or Ethereum.
- Escrow Services: Many marketplaces use escrow to hold payments until the buyer confirms receipt of the product.
5. Placing an Order
Once your account is set up and your payment method is ready, you can place an order:
- Research Sellers: Read reviews and check ratings before making a purchase.
- Product Selection: Be clear on the type and quantity of the substance you wish to buy.
- Shipping Options: Choose discreet shipping options to avoid detection.
6. Safety Measures
Safety is paramount when making purchases on the dark web:
- Don’t Use Personal Information: Never share your real name, address, or other personal details.
- Be Aware of Scams: Look out for fake sellers and counterfeit products.
- Use a Secure Network: Avoid public Wi-Fi when making purchases.
- Many people who use drugs regularly do not think that far ahead, especially in terms of how long their stash is going to last.
- While the purity of coke and heroin that she bought varied somewhat, it was much easier to avoid fentanyl.
- Drugs may be adulterated, counterfeit, or possibly made by amateurs out of their homes using substandard equipment.
- How do you know you’re not going to get ripped off right away by sending your money to someone and hoping you will receive a package?
FAQs About Buying Drugs on the Dark Web
Is it safe to buy drugs on the dark web?
It is risky due to the potential for scams, law enforcement monitoring, and health hazards from unknown substances.
How can I avoid getting caught?
Using a VPN, keeping your identity anonymous, and being cautious with your transactions are critical to maintaining privacy.
What should I do if I get scammed?
There is little recourse on the dark web for scams. However, you can report the seller on forums or contact the marketplace administrator.
Conclusion
Understanding how to buy drugs on the dark web requires caution, preparation, and respect for the legal implications involved. Always prioritize your safety and legality while navigating this hidden part of the internet.
