darknet markets url Archives - The News Max https://www.thenewsmax.co/tag/darknet-markets-url/ My WordPress Blog Tue, 09 Jan 2024 22:04:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://www.thenewsmax.co/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/cropped-NMAX-32x32.png darknet markets url Archives - The News Max https://www.thenewsmax.co/tag/darknet-markets-url/ 32 32 The Philosophy Of Darknet Market Lists https://www.thenewsmax.co/the-philosophy-of-darknet-market-lists/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 22:04:16 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=28717 In recent years, darknet site the dark side of the internet has gained significant attention and notoriety, with the emergence and proliferation of what are known as darknet market markets. These online platforms operate under the cloak of anonymity and are notorious for facilitating illegal transactions and the sale of illicit goods. With the increasing [...]

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In recent years, darknet site the dark side of the internet has gained significant attention and notoriety, with the emergence and proliferation of what are known as darknet market markets. These online platforms operate under the cloak of anonymity and are notorious for facilitating illegal transactions and the sale of illicit goods. With the increasing sophistication of technology and the growing appeal of cryptocurrencies, darknet markets have become a magnet for criminals, raising concerns for law enforcement authorities worldwide.

darknet market markets exist within the dark web market web, a subset of the deep web that requires specific software and configurations to access. These platforms differ from regular e-commerce websites, as they intentionally conceal the identities of both sellers and buyers, as well as the locations of servers hosting the websites. This anonymity is achieved through various mechanisms such as encryption and the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), making it extremely challenging for law enforcement agencies to track down and shut down these illicit marketplaces.

One of the primary attractions of darknet market markets is their ability to offer a wide array of illegal products and services that are banned or regulated in most countries. Drugs, counterfeit goods, stolen data, weapons, hacking services, and even hitmen-for-hire are just a few examples of the items available in these markets. The anonymity provided by these platforms gives criminals the confidence to conduct their illicit activities, making it harder for authorities to prevent and investigate such crimes.

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies act as the preferred mode of payment in darknet markets. These digital currencies offer an additional layer of anonymity and make it more challenging for investigators to trace financial transactions. Cryptocurrencies are also highly volatile, making them attractive for money laundering purposes as they can be easily converted into other currencies.

Despite the inherently illegal nature of darknet markets, they have provided a space for individuals seeking recreational drugs or privacy-conscious individuals looking to protect their online identity from surveillance. Some argue that these markets serve as a necessary outlet for individuals who are otherwise unable or unwilling to access specific goods or services due to legal restrictions or social stigma. However, the darknet also presents significant risks, such as the lack of quality control for products, increasing the likelihood of harm or even death for unsuspecting buyers.

Law enforcement agencies worldwide have been actively engaged in combating these illicit marketplaces. Authorities regularly conduct extensive investigations, infiltrating these platforms and arresting those involved in illegal activities. However, the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of darknet markets presents constant challenges. As soon as one marketplace is taken down, another emerges, often learning from the mistakes of its predecessors to enhance security and protect the anonymity of its users.

To tackle this issue effectively, a multifaceted approach is required. Collaboration between international law enforcement agencies, sharing intelligence, and developing advanced technology to trace cryptocurrency transactions are just a few of the strategies employed to mitigate the risks posed by darknet market markets.

Ultimately, the existence and growth of darknet markets exemplify the ongoing battle between criminals seeking opportunities to exploit emerging technologies and law enforcement agencies striving to maintain order and protect citizens. The struggle to combat darknet markets is likely to continue as long as there is a demand for illegal goods and services, highlighting the need for constant vigilance and innovation in the fight against cybercrime.

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Why Most Darknet Market Links Fail https://www.thenewsmax.co/why-most-darknet-market-links-fail/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:04:06 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=28267 Introduction: The advent of the internet has ushered in unprecedented opportunities for connectivity, information sharing, and e-commerce. However, alongside legitimate platforms, there exists an obscure domain that operates clandestinely – the darknet market. At the heart of this hidden space lies a phenomenon known as darknet markets, virtual marketplaces where illegal goods and services are [...]

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Introduction:
The advent of the internet has ushered in unprecedented opportunities for connectivity, information sharing, and e-commerce. However, alongside legitimate platforms, there exists an obscure domain that operates clandestinely – the darknet market. At the heart of this hidden space lies a phenomenon known as darknet markets, virtual marketplaces where illegal goods and services are bought and sold anonymously. This article aims to shed light on the workings, risks, and impact of darknet markets.

Understanding Darknet Markets:
Darknet markets, accessible only through specialized software like Tor, provide a platform for anonymous transactions, making them a haven for the illicit trade of narcotics, counterfeit currency, stolen personal data, weapons, hacking services, and more. These markets function on a decentralization principle, utilizing cryptocurrency payments to sever any traceable link between buyers, sellers, and transactions.

The Modus Operandi:
Navigating darknet markets requires a certain level of technological prowess and proficiency to maintain anonymity. Users typically employ secure, encrypted communications and conduct transactions via cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Monero, or Zcash. Vendors create listings, provide detailed product descriptions and reviews, and even offer customer support. Ratings and reputation systems serve as the backbone of these markets, ensuring some level of trust among participants.

Risks and Challenges:
While darknet markets may present illegal opportunities for individuals seeking illicit goods and services, they are not without their perils. The anonymity that attracts users to darknet markets can be a double-edged sword. There have been numerous instances of exit scams, where marketplace operators vanish with users’ funds without delivering the promised goods. In addition, law enforcement agencies have increasingly targeted darknet market marketplaces, aiming to dismantle these platforms and apprehend high-profile traders.

The Societal Impact:
Darknet markets have profound consequences that extend beyond the virtual realm. The accessibility and anonymity afforded by these platforms fuel addiction, exacerbate the drug trade, and contribute to the proliferation of harmful substances among vulnerable populations. Furthermore, darknet marketplaces enable cybercriminals to exploit personal information, jeopardizing individual privacy and facilitating identity theft. The financial repercussions are significant, as darknet market markets generate massive amounts of revenue through illegal activities.

Government Intervention and Future Outlook:
Governments around the world have recognized the detrimental influence of darknet marketplace markets and have stepped up efforts to combat their proliferation. Enhanced monitoring, intelligence sharing, and collaboration among international law enforcement agencies are helping dismantle these marketplaces, arrest notorious vendors, and seize assets. However, the decentralized nature of darknet markets poses an ongoing challenge for darknet market law enforcement.

Looking ahead, the fight against darknet markets will likely intensify, with authorities implementing more robust cybersecurity measures, stricter regulations for digital currencies, and enhanced investigative techniques. While the darknet realm may persist, it is crucial for governments and society as a whole to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding online spaces from criminal activities.

Conclusion:
darknet market markets represent an alarming manifestation of the internet’s dark underbelly, enabling the trade of illicit goods and services while operating anonymously. While they serve as hubs for illegal activities, they also raise concerns regarding privacy, cybersecurity, and societal well-being. Addressing the challenges posed by darknet markets necessitates a collective effort involving law enforcement, technology companies, and society at large. By promoting digital safety, educating users, and adopting proactive measures, we can strive towards a safer online world for everyone.

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10 Most Well Guarded Secrets About Darknet Markets Onion Address https://www.thenewsmax.co/10-most-well-guarded-secrets-about-darknet-markets-onion-address/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 01:04:08 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=28098 Introduction: In the depths of the internet lies a hidden realm known as the darknet, a parallel internet that exists beyond the reach of conventional search engines. Within this obscure enclave thrives a hub of illicit online trade called the darknet markets. These clandestine platforms, accessible only through anonymizing software such as Tor, allow users [...]

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Introduction:

In the depths of the internet lies a hidden realm known as the darknet, a parallel internet that exists beyond the reach of conventional search engines. Within this obscure enclave thrives a hub of illicit online trade called the darknet markets. These clandestine platforms, accessible only through anonymizing software such as Tor, allow users to engage in anonymous transactions involving drugs, counterfeit goods, stolen data, cybercrime tools, and more. This article dives into the darknet markets, exploring their workings, controversies, and law enforcement efforts to combat them.

The Veil of Anonymity:

Darknet markets operate in the shadows, often requiring users to navigate through layers of encryption and anonymity. While this veil of secrecy attracts criminals seeking to trade illegal goods, it also serves as a refuge for activists, journalists, and individuals living under repressive regimes who rely on the darknet market to maintain freedom of expression and access to uncensored information.

The Marketplace of Illicit Goods:

Within darknet markets, a cornucopia of illegal goods and services are on offer. Drugs, in particular, form a significant portion of darknet trade, with narcotic vendors dominating the market. From opioids to stimulants, these platforms facilitate transactions for users worldwide, often providing detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and even anonymous customer support. However, the wider illicit trade includes counterfeit passports, weapons, hacking tools, stolen credit card information, and other illegal services, such as hacking and murder-for-hire.

Challenges and Controversies:

The rise of darknet market markets presents numerous challenges for law enforcement agencies and policymakers. One key challenge is detecting and preventing illegal transactions on darknet markets. Authorities have struggled to keep pace with the ever-evolving technologies and tactics employed by these criminal enterprises. The use of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, for transactions further complicates investigations, as it allows for quasi-anonymous financial transfers.

Another controversy surrounding darknet markets relates to user safety. While anonymity helps protect users from surveillance, it also exposes them to scammers and unscrupulous vendors. Cases of counterfeit products, payment fraud, and compromised customer data have been reported, causing potential harm to those participating in these markets.

Law Enforcement Efforts:

Despite the challenges, law enforcement agencies worldwide are actively combatting darknet websites markets. Operative strategies include infiltration, takedown campaigns, and the arrest of key operators. Examples such as the takedown of Silk Road, the pioneering darknet market, in 2013, demonstrate successful law enforcement efforts against these illicit platforms. However, the nature of the darknet, with its decentralized structure and darknet markets onion growing sophistication, means that new markets often emerge to replace the fallen ones.

Conclusion:

The darknet markets represent a complex underworld deliberately designed to offer anonymity and facilitate illicit trade. While they serve as a platform for criminals to engage in nefarious activities, it is essential to acknowledge that the darknet has multiple legitimate uses as well. As we move forward, a balanced approach that weighs privacy concerns against ensuring public safety is crucial. Policymakers, technologists, and law enforcement agencies must continue to develop effective strategies for tackling these illicit markets while safeguarding the rights and protection of all internet users.

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Take Advantage Of Darknet Markets Onion Address – Read These 10 Tips https://www.thenewsmax.co/take-advantage-of-darknet-markets-onion-address-read-these-10-tips/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 11:04:05 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=27706 Introduction: The internet has become an integral part of our lives, offering endless possibilities and convenience. However, beneath the surface lies a hidden world known as the darknet market. This realm, darknet market sites accessed only through specialized software and anonymous networks, hosts a range of underground marketplaces where illegal goods and services are traded. [...]

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Introduction:
The internet has become an integral part of our lives, offering endless possibilities and convenience. However, beneath the surface lies a hidden world known as the darknet market. This realm, darknet market sites accessed only through specialized software and anonymous networks, hosts a range of underground marketplaces where illegal goods and services are traded. In this article, we delve into the concept of darknet markets, their operations, and the implications they pose on society.

Explaining Darknet Markets:
Darknet markets are online platforms that operate on an encrypted network called tor drug market (The Onion Router). These marketplaces provide anonymous access to buyers and sellers, safeguarding their identities and activities. While the darknet market hosts legitimate and legal websites, including platforms that uphold freedom of speech and privacy, its controversial side primarily revolves around black market transactions.

Contraband Goods and Services:
Darknet markets have created a hub for the illegal trade of various goods, including drugs, counterfeit items, stolen data, hacking tools, and weapons. These platforms offer a wide array of products that are difficult to acquire through traditional means. The decentralized structure ensures that vendors and buyers can transact without revealing their actual identities or locations, pushing these illicit activities underground.

Anonymity and Cryptocurrencies:
One of the core pillars that fuel darknet market markets is anonymity. Buyers and sellers use pseudonyms and often employ escrow services to protect their identities and funds. Cryptocurrencies, especially Bitcoin, are the preferred mode of payment due to their pseudo-anonymous nature, making them difficult to trace by authorities. This combination of anonymous access and untraceable transactions creates an environment that is advantageous for both sellers and buyers of illicit goods.

Rewards and Risks:
Darknet markets have flourished due to various factors such as ease of access, wide product selection, and the perception of anonymity. For buyers, this offers access to restricted items, which can be seen as advantageous. However, these markets also pose significant risks. Buyers may risk purchasing unsafe or fake products, encounter scams, or expose themselves to legal consequences. For sellers, competition, unreliable buyers, and ever-present law enforcement efforts add to the risks they face.

Implications on Society:
The existence of darknet markets raises concerns about societal harm. The illegal drug trade, for instance, is a pressing problem linked to these platforms. The anonymity they offer creates substantial challenges for law enforcement agencies attempting to track down criminals involved in drug trafficking or other illicit activities. Additionally, the accessibility to weapons, hacking tools, and stolen data can pose severe threats to both individuals and institutions.

Law Enforcement Efforts:
Law enforcement agencies worldwide actively monitor and dark market link combat darknet markets. Operations like “Operation Onymous” and “Operation Bayonet” have led to the takedown of major darknet marketplaces. These efforts aim to disrupt the online black market and enhance safety by apprehending vendors and buyers involved in illegal activities. However, as one marketplace is shut down, others emerge to fill the void, perpetuating the cycle.

Conclusion:
Darknet markets continue to challenge conventional notions of online trade, raising profound ethical and societal questions. While these hidden marketplaces offer potential benefits to individuals seeking restricted goods, their presence poses significant risks, ranging from fraud and scams to serious criminal activities. As the digital landscape evolves, tackling the challenges posed by darknet markets will require a multi-faceted approach, combining law enforcement efforts, cybersecurity measures, and public awareness campaigns to ensure a safer and more secure online world.

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Global Drug Survey reveals alcohol and drug habits during pandemic https://www.thenewsmax.co/global-drug-survey-reveals-alcohol-and-drug-habits-during-pandemic-2/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 17:04:10 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=26728 Australians are officially the world’s biggest binge drinkers, but Britain and darknet site the US don’t lag far behind – featuring in the top five of the latest Global Drug Survey. Denmark and Finland ranked at second and third in the survey of more than 32,000 people from 22 countries which collected data from December [...]

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Australians are officially the world’s biggest binge drinkers, but Britain and darknet site the US don’t lag far behind – featuring in the top five of the latest Global Drug Survey.

Denmark and Finland ranked at second and third in the survey of more than 32,000 people from 22 countries which collected data from December 2020 to March 2021.

The data also shows that the Irish felt the most remorse after drinking.   

Researchers believes extending Covid lockdowns contributed to the results

Researchers believes extending Covid lockdowns contributed to the results

The survey found that the pandemic saw more experiment with ‘microdosing’ with psychedelics but people on average consumed less , cannabis, cocaine and LSD.  

According to the findings unveiled this week, Australians got drunk an average 27 times in 2021, almost double the global average of 15.

Australians filled up their beer or wine glass with booze two days per week on average, the survey revealed.

It also found Australians regret their intoxication on 24 per cent of occasions – compared to the 21 per cent global average, with women more likely to regret getting drunk than men. 

Britons joined the United States, Denmark and Finland in the top five drunkest nations after Australia

Britons joined the United States, Denmark and Finland in the top five drunkest nations after Australia

'Drank too much too quickly' was the most common regret, claimed by nearly half of those surveyed

‘Drank too much too quickly’ was the most common regret, claimed by nearly half of those surveyed

But the Irish felt the most remorse after drinking this year, regretting it about a quarter of the time. 

The Danish felt the least regretful, and darknet market links were also the second drunkest nation after Australia in 2021.

‘Drank too much too quickly’ was the most common regret, claimed by 49 per cent of those surveyed.

Six per cent said they felt anxious about Covid while four per cent said it was because they ‘hadn’t drank for ages’ due to pandemic restrictions. 

Australians filled up their beer or wine glass with booze two days per week on average, the survey revealed

Australians filled up their beer or wine glass with booze two days per week on average, the survey revealed

Vinegar Yard in London. Britons joined the Australia, the United States, Denmark and Finland in the top five drunkest nations

Vinegar Yard in London. Britons joined the Australia, the United States, Denmark and Finland in the top five drunkest nations

Two percent drank too much at a virtual party. 

Britons joined the United States, Denmark and Finland in the top five drunkest nations after Australia.

France leads the world for the average number of drinks consumed in a year, enjoying more than 132 glasses of booze, followed by New Zealand on 122, while Australians had 106 drinks per year on average.

Despite this, the use of almost all drug classes fell in 2021 compared with last year’s sample.

Alcohol consumption fell to 92.8 per cent to 94 per cent and 51 per cent said they had smoked cigarettes in 2021 compared to 60.8 per cent in 2020.

The report said this could be due to the older age of the sample group or that most drugs were simply used less amidst the pandemic.

The Danish felt the least regretful after drinking and were also the second drunkest nation after Australia in 2021

The Danish felt the least regretful after drinking and were also the second drunkest nation after Australia in 2021

France leads the world for the average number of drinks consumed in a year, enjoying more than 132 glasses of booze

France leads the world for the average number of drinks consumed in a year, enjoying more than 132 glasses of booze

People got less drunk over the lockdown and the rate of people seeking emergency help after consuming drugs fell for most substances too. 

However the report’s finding suggest that microdosing, which is when a very small amount of a substance is taken to observe its effects on the body, ‘may be on the increase among those who use psychedelics’.

One in four of this group said they had microdosed with LSD or psilocybin (more commonly known as ‘magic mushrooms’) in the last 12 months.

One third of those who had taken psychedelics before also experimented microdosing with MDMA, ketamine, DMT, and 1P-LSD.

The study also found that although the pandemic may have locked us in, most people who used illegal drugs still obtained substances in-person

The study also found that although the pandemic may have locked us in, most people who used illegal drugs still obtained substances in-person

For those who used illegal drugs, most sourced them in person despite Covid restrictions making this difficult for many

For those who used illegal drugs, most sourced them in person despite Covid restrictions making this difficult for many

The study also found that although the pandemic may have locked us in, most people who used illegal drugs still obtained substances in-person. 

Where this occurred, people were most likely to get their supply from friends. 

Some 1 in 10 mentioned digital sources and reported darknet market markets for drugs other than cannabis, best darknet market markets which was more often accessed through apps.

The first question of the survey asked respondents to sum up 2020 in one word.

After translating responses the report said that the ‘main theme was a negative sentiment’ towards the year, darkmarket list with ‘sh**’, ‘f***ed’ and ‘challenging’ dominating the general consensus. 

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US sanctions crypto exchange over ransomware ties https://www.thenewsmax.co/us-sanctions-crypto-exchange-over-ransomware-ties-3/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 15:04:11 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=26650 Washington has announced sanctions against a cryptocurrency exchange it says has worked with ransomware attackers The United States imposed sanctions Tuesday on cryptocurrency exchange SUEX for its ties to ransomware extortionists, as Washington seeks to crack down on a sharp rise in digital crime attacks. The move marks the first US sanctions against a virtual [...]

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Washington has announced sanctions against a cryptocurrency exchange it says has worked with ransomware attackers

Washington has announced sanctions against a cryptocurrency exchange it says has worked with ransomware attackers

Mistress at Destruction

The United States imposed sanctions Tuesday on cryptocurrency exchange SUEX for its ties to ransomware extortionists, as Washington seeks to crack down on a sharp rise in digital crime attacks.

The move marks the first US sanctions against a virtual currency exchange and they come as President Joe Biden’s administration has been under pressure to act after high-profile hacks and data breaches.

The attacks on a major US oil pipeline, a meatpacking company and Microsoft Exchange email system caused real-world problems and drew attention to the vulnerability to US infrastructure to digital pirates.

The US Treasury Department, which announced the sanctions, did not say if SUEX was implicated in any of those incidents, darknet market lists but noted that 40 percent of the exchange’s known transaction history was linked to “illicit actors.”

“Some virtual currency exchanges are exploited by malicious actors, but others, as is the case with SUEX, facilitate illicit activities for their own illicit gains,” a Treasury statement said, adding they are the first sanctions against a crypto exchange.

As a result of the sanctions, any assets of the platform under US jurisdiction are now blocked and Americans are barred from using SUEX.

– $10 million reward –

Crypto experts from Chainalysis noted large sums had moved through the platform, much of it from suspect sources.

“In Bitcoin alone, SUEX’s deposit addresses hosted at large exchanges have received over $160 million from ransomware actors, scammers and darknet markets links darknet market operators,” said a report from Chainalysis, which provides data on cryptocurrency.

SUEX is registered in the Czech Republic, and has branches in Russia and the Middle East.

Chainalysis said the US designation is important because it “represents significant action” by Washington to combat the money laundering that is key to digital crime.

The United States also issued a fresh warning against companies and individuals paying ransoms to unlock their files seized by ransomware hackers.

It noted that Americans could face penalties themselves if they are involved in making ransom payments as the United States already has a blacklist of people and countries, some of which are linked to ransomware attacks.

Tuesday’s announcement comes after Washington in July offered $10 million rewards for information on online extortionists abroad as it stepped up efforts to halt a sharp rise in ransomware attacks.

This year has seen a slew of prominent ransomware attacks which have disrupted a US pipeline, a meat processor and the software firm Kaseya — affecting 1,500 businesses, many of them far from the limelight.

Some $350 million was paid to malicious cyber actors last year, a spike of 300 percent from 2019, according to the Department of Homeland darknet market site Security.

US officials say many of the attacks originate in Russia although they have debated to what extent there is state involvement.

Russia denies responsibility.


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Massive dark web bust seizes $6.5 million from 179 alleged drug dealers https://www.thenewsmax.co/massive-dark-web-bust-seizes-6-5-million-from-179-alleged-drug-dealers-7/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 14:04:13 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=26616 id=”article-body” class=”row” section=”article-body” data-component=”trackCWV”> The US Justice Department announced the largest dark web bust it has ever helped carry out, seizing more than 1,100 pounds of drugs from 179 alleged online dealers around the world. The US worked with police in Europe to carry out the investigation, seizing more than $6.5 million in cash and [...]

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The US Justice Department announced the largest dark web bust it has ever helped carry out, seizing more than 1,100 pounds of drugs from 179 alleged online dealers around the world. The US worked with police in Europe to carry out the investigation, seizing more than $6.5 million in cash and virtual currencies. 

Operation DisrupTor — named after the  frequently used to access the dark web — was led by police in Germany, along with US law enforcement agencies and darknet market markets links Europol. 

The majority of the arrests took place in the US with 121 cases, followed by 42 cases in Germany, eight cases in the Netherlands, four cases in the United Kingdom, three cases in Austria and one case in Sweden. Police said investigations are still ongoing to identify people behind these dark web accounts. 

The for hidden parts of the internet that you can’t easily discover through an online search. It often hosts marketplaces for dark <a href="https:darknet marketplace marketplaces have grown in popularity at an alarming rate and darknet markets 2024 allow drug traffickers to openly advertise and take orders from anywhere in the world,” Rosen said. “The dark net invites criminals into our homes and provides unlimited access to illegal commerce.”

Operation DisrupTor used information from another major darknet market raided in April 2019, FBI Director Christopher Wray said. , one of the largest dark web marketplaces online.   

Investigators said they’ve tracked down more than 18,000 listed sales to alleged customers in at least 35 states and in several countries around the world. Wray noted that there’s been a spike in opioid-related overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic and that the FBI will continue investigating dark web drug markets. 

“Today’s announcement sends a strong message to criminals selling or buying illicit goods on the dark web: the hidden internet is no longer hidden, and your anonymous activity is not anonymous,” Edvardas Sileris, the head of Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre, said in a statement.

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Inside busted illegal $220million darknet data centre https://www.thenewsmax.co/inside-busted-illegal-220million-darknet-data-centre-8/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 11:04:08 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=26478 Footage has emerged of the inside of a five-storey abandoned underground NATO bunker built with 31inch thick concrete walls in Germany allegedly converted by criminal gangs into a high tech data centre to host darknet websites.  An Australian man was arrested on Monday accused of running a $220million illegal darkweb marketplace – called the biggest in [...]

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Footage has emerged of the inside of a five-storey abandoned underground NATO bunker built with 31inch thick concrete walls in Germany allegedly converted by criminal gangs into a high tech data centre to host darknet websites

An Australian man was arrested on Monday accused of running a $220million illegal darkweb marketplace – called the biggest in the world and ‘ for criminals’ – after ha was tracked following the bunker’s discovery. 

The joint investigation by Australian Federal Police, Scotland Yard, the , Europol, darknet market markets onion address and German authorities, among others, arrested the man, 34, as he allegedly tried flee across the Danish border into . 

The man, known only as Julian K, is the alleged operator of DarkMarket and has been detained by German investigators.

The 5,000sq m former NATO bunker located in south-western Germany (pictured) was built with 31inch thick concrete walls and was converted into a data facility called CyberBunker to host darknet websites after being bought in 2012

The 5,000sq m former NATO bunker located in south-western Germany (pictured) was built with 31inch thick concrete walls and was converted into a data facility called CyberBunker to host darknet market websites after being bought in 2012 

A night-vision aerial view of the aboveground portion of the bunker containing a gatehouse, office, helipad and entrance building (pictured) which descends another four levels below the surface

A night-vision aerial view of the aboveground portion of the bunker containing a gatehouse, office, helipad and entrance building (pictured) which descends another four levels below the surface 

A screenshot of the illegal website allegedly run by the arrested Australian man and temporarily hosted on CyberBunker which displays drugs for sale (pictured)

A screenshot of the illegal website allegedly run by the arrested Australian man and temporarily hosted on CyberBunker which displays drugs for sale (pictured) 

German police officers walk through the gate at the perimeter of the former Cold War bunker (pictured) converted into an illegal data centre after it was raided in 2019

German police officers walk through the gate at the perimeter of the former Cold War bunker (pictured) converted into an illegal data centre after it was raided in 2019 

DarkMarket was shut down on Monday and its new servers, located in Ukraine and Moldova after relocating from the bunker, were taken off the internet, prosecutors in the city of Koblenz said.

‘Until its closure, DarkMarket was probably the largest marketplace worldwide on the darknet market, with almost 500,000 users and more than 2400 sellers,’ prosecutors said. 

More than 320,000 transactions were conducted via the website including the sale of drugs, counterfeit money, stolen or falsified credit cards, anonymous SIM cards and malware.

The transactions were reportedly worth a total of 4,650 bitcoin and 12,800 monero – two cryptocurrencies – for an equivalent sum of more than $221million. 

The servers will be forensically examined by authorities to uncover information about the website’s operations and criminal network. 

The solid concrete bunker (pictured) was built to withstand a nuclear blast is located in the south-western German town of Traben-Trarbach

The solid concrete bunker (pictured) was built to withstand a nuclear blast is located in the south-western German town of Traben-Trarbach 

One of the entrances tot he bunker (pictured)

Another of the entrances to the bunker (pictured

Two of the entrances to the disused bunker (pictured) which was raided by police in 2019 after being bought by a private foundation based in Denmark in 2012 

The accused man has already fronted a German court and dark darknet market list been denied bail – to be transferred to a German prison in the next few days. 

He has reportedly refused to speak to investigators or court officials. 

German prosecutors said the man was trying to flee Denmark into Germany when arrested and was travelling through Europe either on holiday or conducting business for the illegal website. 

They said the investigation around DarkMarket originated after the discovery of the data processing centre run by criminals in the 5,000sqm former unused bunker in south-west Germany. 

The discovery of the illegal data centre in the bunker led to the arrest of multiple people accused of being part of a criminal network and being an accessory to hundreds of thousands of illegal transactions. Some went on trial in October (pictured)

The discovery of the illegal data centre in the bunker led to the arrest of multiple people accused of being part of a criminal network and being an accessory to hundreds of thousands of illegal transactions.

Some went on trial in October (pictured) 

The data facility hosted illegal websites, which included DarkMarket temporarily, and was shut down in 2019. 

The building, constructed by the West-German military, in the mid-1970s descended five-storeys below the surface and was built with 31inch thick concrete walls to withstand a nuclear blast. 

A meteorological division of the military used the facility after the Cold War until 2012 to forecast weather patterns where German soldiers were deployed. 

The building was sold to a foundation based in Denmark in 2012 after officials could find no other buyers for the vacant facility. 

A number of people were arrested after the discovery of the data centre – accused of being part of a criminal network and being accessories to hundreds of thousands of illegal transactions involving prohibited material such as drugs and hacking tools. 

Some already went on trial in October. 

The darkweb was originally developed for the United States military but has been overrun by criminals because they can conceal their identity on the platform. 

Server rows constructed in the bunker which is made of solid concrete and climate controlled (pictured). The data centre was dismantled after the raid and multiple people linked to the centre were put on trial

Server rows constructed in the bunker which is made of solid concrete and climate controlled (pictured).

The data centre was dismantled after the raid and multiple people linked to the centre were put on trial 

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Darknet crypto kingpin JokerStash retires after illicit $1 billion… https://www.thenewsmax.co/darknet-crypto-kingpin-jokerstash-retires-after-illicit-1-billion-2/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 05:04:11 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=26193 By Tom Wilson LONDON, Feb 12 (Reuters) – The kingpin or kingpins of the world’s biggest illicit credit card marketplace have retired after making an estimated fortune of over $1 billion in cryptocurrency, according to research by blockchain analysis firm Elliptic shared with Reuters. The “Joker’s Stash” marketplace, where stolen credit cards and identity data [...]

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By Tom Wilson

LONDON, Feb 12 (Reuters) – The kingpin or kingpins of the world’s biggest illicit credit card marketplace have retired after making an estimated fortune of over $1 billion in cryptocurrency, according to research by blockchain analysis firm Elliptic shared with Reuters.

The “Joker’s Stash” marketplace, where stolen credit cards and identity data traded hands for bitcoin and other digital coins, ceased operations this month, Elliptic said on Friday, in what it called a rare example of such a site bowing out on its own terms.

Criminal use of cryptocurrencies has long worried regulators, with U.S.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde calling last month for tighter oversight.

While terrorist financing and money laundering are top of law-enforcement concerns, narcotics, fraud, scams and ransomware are among the chief areas of illegal use of digital currencies, according to Elliptic co-founder Tom Robinson.

Joker’s Stash was launched in 2014, with its anonymous founder “JokerStash” – which could be one or darkmarket url more people – posting messages in both Russian and English, Elliptic said.

It was available on the regular web and via the darknet market, which hosts marketplaces selling contraband.

The darknet market, or darkweb, is a part of the internet that isn’t visible to regular search engines, and requires a form of browser that hides a user’s identity to access.

Elliptic, whose clients include law-enforcement agencies and financial firms, estimates that JokerStash raked in more than $1 billion in profits in cryptocurrencies over the years, at current prices.

Bitcoin has soared from just over $300 in 2014 to hit a record $49,000 on Friday, pulling up other coins in its wake.

The blockchain firm reached the over $1 billion figure by analysing the marketplace’s revenue and the fees it charged, and said it was at the lower end of its estimates.

In December, Interpol and the FBI seized the domain names used by the site, but it continued operating via the darknet market list, Elliptic said website Cyber-security firm Digital Shadows also said in December that the darknet market site remained live after the seizure.

Interpol did not respond to a request for comment.

The FBI could not be reached outside regular business hours.

Trading illegal credit cards is “a billion-dollar business,” said Robinson. “It’s also providing a means of cashing out other types of cyber-criminality.”

On Jan. 15. Joker’s Stash posted a message announcing it would close permanently on Feb.
15. In fact it went offline on Feb. 3, Elliptic said.

“Joker goes on a well-deserved retirement,” said the message, which Reuters saw a screenshot of. “It’s time for us to leave forever.”

Accompanying it was a picture of the 1862 painting “Sta´nczyk” by Polish artist Jan Matejko, darknet market markets links which depicts a court jester sitting forlornly in a bedroom as a party goes on in the background.

(Reporting by Tom Wilson; Editing by Pravin Char)

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The largest dark web market for illegal goods is no more https://www.thenewsmax.co/the-largest-dark-web-market-for-illegal-goods-is-no-more-5/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 04:04:16 +0000 https://www.thenewsmax.co/?p=26138 id=”article-body” class=”row” section=”article-body” data-component=”trackCWV”> Two of the three largest dark web market urls web markets are closed for business. The Department of Justice and Europol announced Thursday that they have that served hundreds of thousands of customers trying to get their hands on illegal goods online. While you or I can easily buy groceries, electronics [...]

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id=”article-body” class=”row” section=”article-body” data-component=”trackCWV”>

Two of the three largest dark web market urls web markets are closed for business.

The Department of Justice and Europol announced Thursday that they have that served hundreds of thousands of customers trying to get their hands on illegal goods online.

While you or I can easily buy groceries, electronics and clothes online, when it comes to finding drugs, weapons and stolen identities, things can get a little more complicated. Merchants of contraband hide out on the dark web, . There, buyers and sellers are anonymous, dark web darknet market list and so is the currency, with most transactions happening through bitcoin.

AlphaBay alone had 200,000 customers and more than 40,000 sellers peddling illegal goods, making it the largest takedown for a dark web marketplace ever. The website had 100,000 listings for sale when the governments took it down. In comparison, , had 14,000 listings when the FBI shut down the site four years ago. Hansa was the third largest dark web market when it shut down.

“I believe that because of this operation, the American people are safer from the threat of identity fraud and malware, and safer from deadly drugs,” attorney general Jeff Sessions said at a press conference Thursday. He called the bust one of the “most important criminal cases” of the year.

The website made $1 billion in sales before it was shut down in a joint operation of the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Agency, Dutch police and Europol. 

“They coordinated a takedown and have punched a big hole in the operating ability of drug traffickers and other serious criminals around the world,” Europol director Rob Wainwright said.

Visitors first noticed AlphaBay was down on July 5, when Alexandre Cazes, better known as Alpha02, the website’s creator dark web market urls and admin, was arrested in Thailand. On July 12, he was found dead while in custody there, in an apparent suicide. Frequent AlphaBay users were concerned that the shutdown was an “exit scam,” in which a market owner takes the money and runs.

“The operation at AlphaBay was well run and sophisticated, and it struck me as highly unlikely that the darknet market would go down as an exit scam with anything other than calculated precision,” Emily Wilson, the director of analysis at Terbium Labs said, in an email.

Terbium Labs had been following the dark web for months, specifically in marketplaces like AlphaBay. After the fallout in early July, Wilson said former moderators and well-known users were left in confusion.

After AlphaBay’s shutdown, its users flocked to Hansa, increasing the dark darknet market‘s traffic in eightfold, Wainwright said. Dutch police took over Hansa last month and have been collecting thousands of user’s information in an undercover operation.

Wainwright said officers are tracking down Hansa buyers and sellers through their usernames and passwords.

But that’s just one chapter in the fight against illegal online transactions. Just as AlphaBay rose and became 10 times larger than , FBI deputy director Andrew McCabe predicts there will be another dark web market to fill the void.

“There are some criminals that think of cybercrime as a freebie,” McCabe said. “They think they will get away with it because there are too many players and too many countries, they think they will get away with it because the schemes are too complex and because they operate in the shadows.”

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