Although it hasn’t been around for that long, the Dark Web market is worth billions of dollars. What most people don’t realize is that the Dark Web is like another dimension of the Internet that we’re all used to. The only difference is that the Dark Web allows people to sell goods and services that aren’t allowed in the real web. This includes things like illegal weapons, drugs, bootleg content and even organs.
Still, millions of people transact on the Dark Web regardless of the risk that comes with it. They know they can do whatever they like without getting caught. How does this happen? Before we answer that it’s important to understand how regular online shopping works. This way you can see the Dark Web in context.
Regular Online Shopping
There’s usually a lot going on in the back-end of online platforms like Amazon that we don’t get to see. All we see is the final product which is a website that hosts a wide range of products for us to purchase. The great thing about platforms like Amazon is that they make it so easy to buy stuff online. All you have to do is click on the product you want to buy, look at the details and click on the “Buy” button. From there, it goes into a virtual “cart.” Once you’re done shopping, you’ll click on your cart to see an overview of what you’ve chosen. Then proceed to “Checkout.”
It’s all a very simple, straightforward and thought-out process. It’s also very safe thanks to HTTPS encryption, site certification and VPN services like IPVanish.
What is Dangerous about Buying on the Dark Web Markets?
There are many risks that come with using the Dark Web. For one thing, you can’t trust anyone because everyone is using a fake identity. That’s rule #1 of using the Dark Web. This makes it a hotbed for cybercriminals and online piracy, but it’s also designed to protect users from third-party interference and it means that even if you get caught buying something on dark web markets, no-one will be able to uncover your real identity.
What Should You Do?
The following recommended practices should be applied to every transaction or activity that you take part in on dark web markets.
Full Disclaimer: We don’t condone the use of the Dark Web for illegal purposes. We’re just sharing some of the methods and tools that people use to maintain anonymity.
1. Use Tor
Tor makes it easier to access the full gamut of the Dark Web so it’s essential to anyone that wants to use this part of the Internet. You can easily download the Tor browser by accessing the Tor Project website. Tor is pretty safe but it’s not enough on the Dark Web.
2. Provide Only Fake Personal Information
This one is pretty obvious; never reveal your personal details to anyone on dark web markets, no matter how trustworthy they seem. Also, refrain from posting content that would make it easy for people to trace your identity. You should also be careful when choosing your username and make sure it’s something completely inscrutable and impossible to guess. You need to be as incognito as possible.
3. Test Privacy All the Time
There are many ways in which your computer can reveal your identity and personal information, including OS privacy betrayal. In addition to your browser, there are several other software pieces on your computer that can easily reveal your identity and your location without your knowledge. That’s why it’s advisable to always use a privacy testing service to test your privacy.
4. Install a VPN
Even though the Tor browser will encrypt your traffic and hide it from other users in the network, it’ll still be visible to your government and your ISP. That’s why you must use a VPN to protect yourself from geo-tracking, geo-blocking and any type of third-party snooping. IPVanish is great because it offers hundreds of servers across numerous destinations so you can safely hide your location and your identity.
5. Use Safe Cryptocurrencies
Although Bitcoin is popular, it’s not the safest or the most private cryptocurrency. There are many cases of authorities that were able to trace Dark Web transactions to certain wallet owners, thanks to Bitcoin’s public ledger system. That’s why most Dark Web users recommend Bitcoin “tumbler.”
Did you find this article on dark web markets helpful? Let us know in the comments below. We would love to hear from you!
