From The Mountains To The Mailbox: I Spent A Weekend With A Deep Web Drug Dealer
The popularity of the “Dark Web” for purchasing illegal drugs is especially worrisome because it is increasing the availability and acceptability of drugs, according to an addiction psychiatry expert. The combination of the data protection offered by the dark web and cryptocurrencies has encouraged a boom in illegal marketplaces on the darknet, according to the experts – though this is still a small part of the global illicit trade. A total of 15 per cent of respondents said they had bought their drugs from darknet marketplaces. The offline drugs market as it stands is all local monopolies and cartels, run by dealers and gangsters. By introducing clever payment mechanisms, feedback systems, and real competition, power is shifting to the users. The most surprising statistics about Silk Road 2.0 are not the amount of available drugs (although that is truly staggering); it’s the satisfaction scores.
Silk Road 2.0 was then shut down once again in 2014, and the United States government later seized more than $1 billion worth of Bitcoin in November 2020. Some people might assume that buying drugs on the dark web is safer because of its perceived anonymity, but that isn’t necessarily true. The mere fact that most people are unable to access the dark web, especially without some sort of insider knowledge, shows just how difficult it could be for the average joe to purchase illicit drugs using it.
Understanding the Darknet
The darknet is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access, commonly known as Tor. This anonymity can lure individuals into a world filled with illegal activities, including drug trafficking.
Forum’s staff officially don’t sell any illicit goods, so they can be viewed as less attractive targets for any law enforcement. But they do sell advertisements to Darknet vendors and this can be the ground for a money laundering charge. In fact, a similar case occurred in deepdotweb.com case, where portal owners were charged with money laundering conspiracy for such advertisements. There is a new darknet Reddit search engine for cybercriminals to search illegal merchandise in darknet markets – top UX for online fraud.
Risks Involved
Not only do you get automated monitoring, but your security analysts get contextualized alerts about dark web threats. From leaked credentials or stolen company data for sale and signs of targeted attacks, Flare provides comprehensive dark web threat detection. Flare’s high risk threat monitoring solution provides automated dark web monitoring, which frees up time and resources for other important security tasks. The platform takes around 15 minutes to set up and it decreases dark web investigation time by 10x. Attacks typically target users of banking, cryptocurrency, e-commerce sites, and even email.
The products and services category includes trust factors regarding products. Legal web markets often use the price comparison function to allow customers to compare prices with other online markets. Displaying discount prices or waiving shipping fees can act as a marketing ploy. Another trust-building factor is offering a wide range of products so that customers can choose between, for example, goods of lower or higher quality or from various manufacturers.
Before exploring the topic of how to buy drugs on darknet, it is crucial to understand the potential risks involved:
- Brian, a writer, harm reduction supporter and avid drug consumer in his 60s, hasn’t ever bought directly from the dark web.
- Back then, in June 2017, Hansa Market was one of the bigger marketplaces selling mostly illegal products.
- When users access a site through Tor, their information is routed through thousands of relay points that cover the user’s tracks and make their browsing virtually impossible to trace.
- Into The Web of Profit, a 2019 study, indicated that 60% of all dark web listings could be harmful to enterprises.
- Legal Consequences: Purchasing drugs online can lead to severe legal repercussions.
- Transaction Security: Many transactions can be fraudulent, causing loss of money.
- Health Risks: The quality and purity of purchased drugs are often unknown.
- Exposure to Scams: Many sellers may not deliver the promised products.
Furthermore, we find that cannabis prices are affected by quality, as measured by the success of the particular cannabis strain in the Cannabis Cup. We find that higher electricity prices are indeed reflected in cannabis prices. There is a significant positive relationship between GDP per capita and cannabis prices.
Another reason why getting drugs on the dark web is more difficult, or less appealing to the buyer, is having to wait for the product to come in the mail. Although some users may have to wait a couple hours for their normal dealer to answer the phone, or show up at the meeting spot, waiting for drugs purchased on the dark web could take weeks, that is, if they ever come. This could be a major problem for someone looking to get a quick fix, while avoiding withdrawal symptoms. Vendors and customers from all over the world could buy and sell drugs across borders using nothing but the mailing service. Although dark web search engines exist, they find it hard to keep up with the continuously shifting landscape. Grams was an early example, now superseded by Kilos, a search engine offering almost 70,000 listings from 7 different marketplaces.
In other words, the information stored on the Darknet can only be accessed by those who truly know what they are looking for. However, a quick Google search will easily pull up a how-to page on gaining access to this sinister side of the web. But once you are inside the Darknet, it is nearly impossible to trace IP addresses or find any clues as to where information is coming from. The Darknet is making it easier than ever before for Hong Kong citizens to buy drugs and the police are having a hard time keeping up. Shipping from overseas can prove slightly more risky for buyers, though –– any packages passing through customs will be X-rayed.
Necessary Tools
To navigate the darknet safely, you will need:
- Tor Browser: Download the Tor browser to access darknet websites.
- VPN Service: A Virtual Private Network adds an extra layer of anonymity.
- Cryptocurrency: Most transactions are conducted using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin to maintain anonymity.
Steps to Access Darknet Markets
Once you are equipped, here’s how to proceed with buying drugs:
- Install Security Software: Ensure your device has adequate security measures in place.
- Download and Install Tor: Navigate to the official Tor Project website and install the browser.
- Use a VPN: Activate your VPN for additional privacy.
- Access Darknet Marketplaces: Browse various darknet market sites, such as Silk Road, Dream Market, or others.
- Create an Account: Most marketplaces will require you to register an account.
Making a Purchase
When ready to buy, follow these guidelines:
- Research Sellers: Look for sellers with positive reviews and a good reputation.
- Select Product: Choose the desired drug and check the product details.
- Negotiate Price: Some sellers may allow for price negotiations.
- Use Escrow Service: Opt for an escrow service to ensure safe payment.
- Complete Transaction: Once you are satisfied, complete the payment using cryptocurrency.
FAQs
What is the darknet?
The darknet is an encrypted portion of the internet that requires specific software to access. It is known for hosting illegal activities, including drug sales.
Is buying drugs on the darknet illegal?
Yes, purchasing drugs on the darknet is illegal in most countries and can lead to serious legal consequences.
What is the safest way to buy drugs on the darknet?
There is no entirely safe method, but using a reputable marketplace and engaging in safe transaction practices can minimize risks. Always prioritize your safety and legality.
How do I avoid scams?
Research sellers extensively, look for positive reviews, and always use escrow services when available to protect your funds.
Conclusion
Understanding how to buy drugs on darknet involves navigating a complex and risky environment. With potential legal, financial, and health consequences, individuals should consider these factors carefully before engaging in such activities.
