Would-be purchasers access the dark web via an encrypted subset of the internet, where thousands of drug-supply shops vie for business. “It’s one of the real strengths of the system, because it enables trust in the purchase of illegal products.” Chris, whose real name cannot be used for legal reasons, was the kingpin of an international syndicate that sold hundreds of kilograms of drugs via the postal service. 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.
Understanding the Darknet
The darknet refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines. It provides anonymity and privacy, attracting various activities, including the sale of illegal drugs.
How to Access the Darknet
Dream Market became the largest online marketplace for illegal drugs with the Dread Pirate Roberts finding his ship dead in the water. From drugs and stolen data to counterfeit goods of all descriptions, Dream Market thrived until the site was shut down in April 2019, the owner having been arrested two years previously. Founded in 2011, Silk Road was the largest and most famous online market used for illegal trafficking of drugs and other illegal products. Despite massive efforts from the U.S.A.’s DEA and FBI, it took a long time to finally track down the IP address of founder Ross William Ulbrecht in San Francisco in 2013. To avoid false or otherwise adulterated products, Doe conducts extensive research into his sellers and opts for more expensive products. He adds that he buys ‘reagents’ –– substances or compounds that can be added to a drug to assess its purity via a chemical reaction – which can legally be purchased in the United Kingdom to provide an additional safeguard against risky consumption.
Accessing the darknet requires specific tools and knowledge. Follow these steps:
- Download a VPN: A Virtual Private Network protects your identity and location.
- Install the Tor Browser: This specialized browser allows users to access .onion sites associated with the darknet.
- Create a Secure Email: For communication on the darknet, using anonymous email services is recommended.
The third is complete anonymity, which also extends to the actor from whom the customer orders the product. This trust factor is based on mistrust, which becomes essential in illegal trade processes (Przepiorka et al., 2017). Something like this is happening with the sale of illegal drugs on the darknet.
- That prevents price discovery and risk compensation, key features of a well-functioning market.
- But major law enforcement operations have led to the dismantling of a number of darknet platforms, including AlphaBay, which we mentioned at the beginning of this piece when talking about the “Fentmaster” case.
- Many sites go defunct fairly quickly, either because they are shut down for illegal activity, their founders’ close shop after getting bored, or they move to a new address and name to help avoid detection.
- Even transactions facilitated by friends were deemed more risky than buying drugs on the dark web (14 percent and 6 percent, respectively).
Just like when navigating the surface web, the dark web has similar risks that should be taken into account when protecting your personal information. When this information exchange happens on several different applications, it creates fragmentation and stretches the ability of law enforcement to track everything and proceed to arrests. “Such information is transmitted in the form of an image to prevent possible indexing. […] notes may contain details how deep the “package” has been hidden under the ground or any other information to find it.” All seven of the above use the same M-Club CMS engine to build their APKs, so they likely used the same developer services. The FBI seized crypto wallets of Silk Road users and arrested Ulbricht, collecting millions of dollars worth of Bitcoin. The seizure of Bitcoin and arrest of Ulbricht were meant to send a clear message to all other cybercriminal enterprises.
The dark web is a subset of the deep web, which is also not indexed by traditional search engines. Unlike the deep web, the dark web functions not only for security but also for anonymity. Its content is intentionally hidden and requires special browsers to access. Bitcoin-specific ATMs, where people can buy cryptocurrency with cash, were being used by street level drug dealers to launder money to “transfer up to their superiors”, the Garda said. But reviews and forums give buyers more power, as does the escrow system. By offering so many options, these sites also just make it easier for psychonauts to explore what’s out there.
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are the preferred payment method on the darknet, as they are anonymous and difficult to trace. However, be wary of vendors who ask for payment outside of the marketplace – this is a common scam.Once you have made your purchase, be careful when it comes to shipping. And of course, never sign for a package that you are not expecting.Remember, buying drugs on the darknet is illegal and carries serious risks. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, more than 60% of all trading on the darknet consists of illegal drug trafficking (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2021). Therefore, traffic trends in darknet markets seem to reflect changes in the importance of certain elements of horizontal trust between vendors and customers.
Of course, it’s a completely legitimate app offering end-to-end encrypted messages and calls so that ISPs and other third parties cannot access the data. “However, we strongly disagree with how our brand is categorized here and we have been in contact with Attorney General Weiser’s office to refute the inaccurate claims in this report,” Whaling said. She said their platforms are “very inefficient” for drug sales since they are designed for one-on-one interactions and that the company has made proactive efforts to ban accounts that mention drugs. The purchase of drugs on the dark net is on the rise in England with the percentage more than doubling since 2014.
How to Buy Drugs on the Darknet
Once you have access to the darknet, you can start your search for drugs. Here are the steps:
“We’re finding that on an international level as well that shipments of cocaine from South and Central America, are now being paid for in cryptocurrency,” he told the conference. Cryptocurrency such as bitcoin, which is a virtual currency used online, is now a crucial part of how organised crime gangs operated, he said. The detective warned parents a “red flag” was if their teenage children were using a special internet browser such as Tor, which can access the dark web. Prior to Keeper, Darren served as an advisor to JiWire, now called NinthDecimal. NinthDecimal is the leading media and technology service provider for the WiFi industry.
- Find a Reliable Marketplace: Research various darknet marketplaces, such as Dream Market or AlphaBay. Check user reviews and ratings.
- Create an Account: Sign up for the marketplace using your secure email. Some sites may require additional verification.
- Fund Your Account: Use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for transactions to maintain anonymity. Make sure to use a safe wallet.
- Search for Products: Use the search feature to find the specific drugs you are looking for. Utilize filters and sorts for easier navigation.
- Evaluate Sellers: Check seller ratings and reviews. Look for vendors with high feedback scores and detailed product descriptions.
- Place an Order: Once you select a product, add it to your cart and follow the checkout process.
- Wait for Delivery: After payment, your order will be shipped. Choose discreet packaging options if available.
Is Social Media The Best Place To Buy Drugs?
Risks and Precautions
Buying drugs on the darknet carries significant risks. Consider the following precautions:
- Anonymity: Always prioritize maintaining your identity and location.
- Legal Issues: Understand the laws in your country regarding drug possession and trafficking.
- Quality Control: Drugs purchased from the darknet may be of unknown purity or dangerous additives.
- Scams: Be cautious of potential scams and fraudulent sellers. Always research before making purchases.
FAQ
Is it legal to buy drugs on the darknet?
No, buying drugs is illegal in most jurisdictions even if done anonymously on the darknet.
What should I do if I get scammed?
Document all interactions and transactions. Report the scam to the darknet marketplace and consider seeking legal advice.
How can I protect my identity while buying drugs?
Use a VPN, the Tor browser, anonymous email accounts, and cryptocurrencies to help maintain your privacy.
Are there alternatives to buying drugs on the darknet?
Yes, consider legal alternatives such as prescription medications or consult professionals for help with substance use.
