Arrested In Dark Web Drug Bust As Police Seize EUR 26 Million
“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. “A lot of teenage kids are buying their drugs on the dark net,” Det Carbery told a national prosecutor’s conference on Saturday. The deep web is any part of the Internet that isn’t indexed by search engines – which means its websites aren’t organised through the process normally used by search engines to identify relevant information. It’s an encrypted part of the Internet that cannot be found via conventional search engines and is only accessible through specialised tools that provide anonymity.
Understanding the Darknet: The Reality of Buying Drugs
When you got home, you often found the drugs you’d purchased weren’t “as advertised” and were of a much inferior quality than you’d been promised. If you were younger, you also faced the problem of how to hide your drugs and drug use from your parents and friends. 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.
- If you love this show that much, consider donating to it to help keep the WiFi on.
- In terms of the final three entries, seeds refer to seeds for drug plants like hemp for marijuana, poppies for opioids, and coca plants for cocaine.
- You’ll need a browser like Tor equipped with the right proxy to access the site.
- They no longer run such risks as being shot by a rival or stabbed by a junkie.
Is it in their jurisdiction if it crosses state lines or countries? Is pursuing first-time offenders on Instagram and Facebook worth the time and financial resources? Some police departments (like this one in Texas) risk ridicule after posting pictures of small scale busts. What makes the dark web a game-changer is that it has those features. Suppliers have detailed reviews on their product, the market is competitive, and people can shop around easily.
There is no quality control department at your dealer’s house, and the people making these drugs do not care about your safety. It is a highly deadly opiate drug that has become prevalent in the United States drug supply and has been found in counterfeit internet drug sales like fake hydrocodone, Xanax, Adderall, and oxycodone 30mg (M30s) and other prescription pills. Fentanyl and other substances are used to stretch their drug supply out to make a more significant profit. One of the things that happens with darknet marketplaces is as you get bigger, you become targeted by law enforcement for takedowns.
This, along with advances in vaping technology, has led to an increase in drug-based e-liquids advertised for sale on dark web marketplaces. These innovations allow for early confirmation of market changes such as the emergence of fentanyl and other novel synthetic opioids [10, 11] and of new drug delivery systems, such as e-cigarette/vaping methods for drug consumption [12]. In the eyes of law enforcement, cracking down on internet drug sales can be complicated.
“Except for those three times, I never got shorted, and the product ranged from good to excellent quality,” she noted. According to Cory, only one online dealer in North America sells truly fentanyl-less heroin anymore. While a number claim to sell “fentanyl-free” dope, reviews indicate that they’re lying. (Some people also seek fentanyl and there are vendors who openly sell it.) Still, my sources agree, unwanted fentanyl is found in lower levels in drugs bought online compared with street drugs. Nearly as convenient as calling an Uber or ordering a pizza, the Colorado Attorney General’s Office said in a report released Wednesday. The value of these markets was estimated by the UNODC in September of 2018 to stand at $14 million (£11 million) to $25 million (£20 million) per month – a tiny fraction of overall illicit drug sales.
The darknet refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. One of the most infamous uses of the darknet is for the illicit purchase of illegal substances. Many users seek to buy drugs darknet due to perceived anonymity and ease of access.
“The same privacy and anonymity that deliver protection from tyrants and targeted advertisements also make the dark web a springboard for crime,” Kumar and Rosenbach added. Until now, international authorities had faced the challenge posed by drug trafficking on the dark web by shutting down the websites used to manage such illegal business. The technology behind the dark web was originally created by the US Department of Defense for the purpose of protecting sensitive communications between spies. It also offered an incredibly useful pathway for the dissemination of information, especially in countries with authoritarian governments who restricted free speech. Almost unintentionally, this communication technology provided a “digital roof” under which new markets could develop as demand for decentralized drug dealing grew.
Why People Choose to Buy Drugs on the Darknet
There are several reasons individuals might select the darknet for purchasing drugs:
- Anonymity: Users believe that transactions on the darknet provide better privacy than street purchases.
- Variety: The darknet often offers a wider range of substances that may not be available locally.
- Accessibility: Individuals may find it easier to access certain drugs, especially in areas where they are heavily legislated against.
- Perceived Safety: Many users think that buying drugs online reduces the risks associated with purchasing from unknown dealers.
How the Darknet Works for Drug Transactions
Buying drugs on the darknet typically involves the following steps:
- Accessing the Darknet: Users need to install special software such as Tor, which allows them to browse the darknet securely.
- Finding a Marketplace: There are various marketplaces where drugs can be purchased. Each has its own reputation, payment systems, and selection of products.
- Account Creation: Users must create accounts on these marketplaces, often requiring an email address that does not link back to them.
- Payment: Most darknet transactions are completed using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, ensuring a degree of anonymity.
- Placing an Order: Once users select their desired drugs, they can complete a transaction and await delivery.
Risks Associated with Buying Drugs on the Darknet
Although the allure of the darknet is strong, it is essential to be aware of the significant risks involved:
- Legal Consequences: Purchasing illegal drugs is a criminal offense, and law enforcement agencies are increasingly monitoring darknet activities.
- Scams: Many users encounter fraudulent sellers, leading to lost money without receiving products.
- Unsafe Products: The quality and purity of drugs obtained from the darknet can vary significantly, posing health risks to users.
- Security Risks: Engaging in darknet transactions exposes users to potential cyber threats, including hacking and phishing attempts.
FAQs about Buying Drugs on the Darknet
Is it safe to buy drugs on the darknet?
No, while some consider it safer than street deals, there are substantial risks, including legal issues and potential for fraud.
What should I do if I encounter a scam?
Report the scam to relevant authorities but avoid revealing personal information that could lead back to you.
Can I get arrested for using the darknet?
Yes, law enforcement agencies monitor darknet activities, and engaging in illegal transactions can lead to arrest.
What are some alternatives to buying drugs on the darknet?
Consider seeking help from professionals or organizations that deal with substance-related issues instead of engaging in illegal activities.
Final Thoughts
While the idea of purchasing drugs via the darknet may seem appealing to some, it is crucial to weigh the potential dangers and legal consequences. Exploring safer, legal alternatives is always a better choice.
