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Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines, requiring specific software and configurations to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, including the buying of drugs, but it’s essential to approach this subject with caution and awareness.
Why Do People Use the Dark Web for Buying Drugs?
Several reasons compel individuals to purchase drugs on the dark web:
- Privacy: Transactions can be more anonymous compared to traditional markets.
- Variety: Access to a wider range of substances that may not be available locally.
- Price: Potentially lower prices due to competition among sellers.
The platform founders implemented arguably the most stringent user security protocols of all dark net markets in existence today. They popularized the use of two-factor authentication and PGP encryption for all communications between buyers and sellers. The first such modern black market to demand public attention was Silk Road—a $1.2 billion operation at its peak. Silk Road launched in 2011, serving over 100,000 customers and popularizing the use of Bitcoin in black market transactions. Its administrator, Ross Ulbricht—using the online alias “Dread Pirate Roberts”—was eventually sentenced to life in prison without parole .
The direct payments from vendors to suppliers, and subsequent payouts from ASAP Market following sales, is shown on the Elliptic Investigator graph below. Elliptic’s investigation into the role of crypto in the fentanyl trade has uncovered that these rules are often not strictly enforced. Many vendors still sell fentanyl on mainstream dark web markets, disguised using names such as “China White” and hashtags such as “fetty” or “synthetic”. The emergence of Telegram as a new dark web frontier also partly explains the revenue reductions in traditional dark web marketplaces. Threat actors and aspiring cybercriminals have been flocking to Telegram channels and groups hoping to benefit from even better anonymity and default end-to-end encryption. With more intense pressure from law enforcement, being extorted by other threat actors, and changes in personal circumstances, it’s clear that many dark web market admins and owners feel the risks are too great.
Let’s look at the definitions of the surface web, the deep web, and the dark web provided by the internet security company Kaspersky. Stay informed on the top business tech stories with Tech.co’s weekly highlights reel. Once you’ve got it downloaded and installed a VPN, close every open internet program and fire it back up. Use the OpenVPN protocol and connect to a city that’s far away from where you’re currently living. They have now been destroyed by the lab as possession of DMT can lead to a jail sentence of up to seven years. Analytical Services International, at St George’s University of London examined the drugs.
How to Buy Drugs on the Dark Web
According to UN data (and as Quartz has previously reported), huge price disparities exist across borders. Cocaine, for instance, typically costs $63 a gram in the UK and more than $130 in Sweden. There can be large disparities in price within the same country or even the same city. A wide variation in purity is one reason, but so is an ill-functioning market. If drugs were a legal commodity, those price differences would be arbitraged away through trade. One beneficiary of White House Market’s decision to close up shop might be the newly rebooted AlphaBay, now run by the admin “DeSnake.” DeSnake was one of the admins for the original AlphaBay, but escaped prosecution.
While this guide outlines the basic steps to navigate the dark web, it is crucial to remember that engaging in illegal activities carries significant risks, including legal consequences and health dangers. The following steps are for informational purposes only:
1. Set Up Security Measures
Before accessing the dark web, prioritize your online safety:
- There’s also DuckDuckGo, which boasts anonymous search, and Torch, and older but relatively reliable search engine.
- By signing up, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy & to receive electronic communications from Vice Media Group, which may include marketing promotions, advertisements and sponsored content.
- Of course, you can also find plenty of illegal items such as hacked Netflix accounts, stolen Social Security numbers, credit card account numbers, firearms, and drugs, too.
- If you’re reading this article, should probably be using a VPN in your day-to-day life to begin with.
- The Department of Law worked with representatives from Meta, Snapchat and TikTok to compile the report, as well as law enforcement, public health experts and harm reduction advocates.
- Use a VPN: This masks your IP address, enhancing anonymity.
- Install Tor Browser: This is essential for accessing .onion websites that are part of the dark web.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Consider cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for transactions to maintain anonymity.
Law enforcement agencies around the world — but especially in the US — have started to take a keen interest in what takes place in this strange encrypted internet and are certainly getting better at infiltrating and shutting down these sites. Periodically one disappears following a police raid, sparking panic and worry among the community of users. But the dark net markets learn from each mistake and are becoming more secure and more decentralised, making them incrementally more difficult to combat. Because most of these packages are shipped across the ocean or over borders, they’re almost always inspected.
Still, wherever you have anonymous traffic on hidden networks, the criminal activity will follow. The dark web, which can only be accessed on browsers like Tor that mask the location of the device, is used as a “secret club for criminals”, where cryptocurrency can be used to buy drugs, he said. “Why would they go to a run-down area in the city centre or out in the suburbs, where they are at risk of being robbed, and their funds being taken, when they can order their drugs online from the safety of their home,” he said. The unfortunate part is that receiving your package could take anywhere from days to weeks, and sometimes (about 10 percent of the time) it doesn’t show up at all.
2. Finding Markets
Once security is established, the next step is to locate dark web marketplaces:
- Search forums or guides that provide links to established markets.
- Use Reddit or other communities for recommendations.
3. Creating an Account
Most markets require you to create an account. Follow these tips:
- Use a unique username: Avoid personal references to maintain anonymity.
- Enable 2FA: Two-factor authentication adds an extra security layer.
4. Browsing and Ordering
Once registered, you can start browsing:
- Read vendor reviews for reliability.
- Check shipping options and timelines.
- Compare prices to ensure a fair deal.
When you decide on a product:
- Add items to your cart.
- Proceed to checkout and use your chosen payment method.
5. After Purchase
Post-purchase, maintain security by:
- Using encrypted communication if necessary.
- Monitoring your cryptocurrency wallet for any unauthorized transactions.
Risks of Buying Drugs on the Dark Web
Buying drugs on the dark web is fraught with risks:
- Legal Issues: Law enforcement agencies monitor dark web activities.
- Scams: There are many fraudulent vendors that may not deliver products.
- Health Risks: The quality and safety of substances are not guaranteed.
FAQs
What is the dark web?
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that requires specific software like Tor to access.
Is it legal to buy drugs on the dark web?
No, purchasing illegal substances on the dark web is against the law in most countries.
What should I do if I encounter a scam?
Report the vendor on the platform if possible and alert other users to prevent future scams.
How can I protect my identity while using the dark web?
Use a VPN, avoid sharing personal information, and transact anonymously.
Are there any safe alternatives to the dark web for substance access?
Consult professionals for legal advice and safe resources rather than turning to illegal markets.