The darknet, also known as the dark web, is a concealed section of the internet that's inaccessible via standard search engines. You can only access it using special software, settings, or authorization. This area comprises websites and content that are purposely kept hidden from public view.
Accessing darknet requires using Tor Browser, a special web browser that routes your internet traffic through a global network of relays managed by volunteers. This way, it becomes very difficult to trace which websites you're visiting, and these sites won't know where you are located.
When visiting the dark web, use a secure browser like Tor, do not reveal any of your personal information, and don't open suspicious files or links to stay safe.
The Darknet is often utilized for secure communication, discreet information or file sharing, anonymous research without identity exposure, and occasionally for engaging in illicit activities. It is also recognized for hosting underground black markets(darknet markets), whistleblowing platforms, and discussion boards that champion freedom of speech.
While accessing Darknet Markets themselves is typically not against the law in most places, engaging with illicit goods within them is generally considered a crime. On the other hand, some people might visit Darknet Markets for lawful purposes such as research, journalistic work, or simply to explore online communities. It's essential to know the local laws regarding online activities, and be cautious when using these platforms to avoid any potential issues.
Dutch Police Detain Administrator of 'Bohemia/Cannabia' Dark Web Marketplace
An international law enforcement operation arrested one of the three admins of the dual darknet market 'Bohemia/Cannabia.' It hosted ads for drug sales and DDoS attacks.
On June 27, 2024, they arrested the man at Schiphol airport in Amsterdam. They seized his devices, which had incriminating data and Bitcoin wallet access keys.
A second administrator of Bohemia/Cannabia was arrested in Ireland in the context of the same operation, which leveraged data from the joint international investigation.
The Dutch police and partners in Ireland, the UK, and the US seized over 8 million euros ($8.77M) in cryptocurrency from the two admins.
Politie says it investigated a darknet platform from late 2022 until its shutdown at the end of 2023. The site had service disruptions and a feud with a "rogue developer" who allegedly caused the outages.
When the admins "exit scammed" and split the money users had deposited to the platform, the police traced the amounts and identified the administrators.
The darknet market also had most of its server infrastructure in the country, which is now under the police's control.
At its peak, in September 2023, Bohemia/Cannabia generated over 12 million Euros ($13.1M) in revenue. The marketplace reportedly added 82,000 advertisements daily and facilitated 67,000 transactions every month.
It is estimated that the administrators have made a profit of about 5 million Euros ($5.47M) from the operation of the darknet market.
The police's analysis shows that sellers in the Netherlands did at least 14,000 transactions worth 1.7 million euros ($1.86M).
Many of those members were previously identified and arrested, and the police expect that more arrests will follow as more evidence is unearthed from the seized infrastructure.
The admin arrested by the Dutch police earlier this year has appeared before the Rotterdam court today, but the litigation process is still in its early pre-trial phases.