Phishing Prevention Guide
Phishing attacks are common on darknet marketplaces. Scammers create fake sites to steal login credentials and funds. This guide teaches you how to identify and avoid phishing pages.
WHAT IS PHISHING?
Phishing is a fraudulent practice where scammers create fake websites that mimic legitimate darknet marketplaces. These fake sites are designed to steal user credentials, cryptocurrency, and personal information.
HOW PHISHING WORKS
- Scammers create fake marketplace websites
- Fake sites mimic legitimate market design and functionality
- Users enter credentials on fake sites
- Scammers capture login information
- Scammers access real accounts and steal funds
Phishing attacks are a serious threat on darknet marketplaces. Always verify links and use only trusted sources.
HOW TO IDENTIFY PHISHING PAGES
RED FLAGS
- Links received via email or private message
- Links from unverified sources or forums
- URLs that don't match official mirror lists
- Sites requesting additional personal information
- Sites with different design than official market
- Sites that don't have PGP verification
- Links shared on clearnet platforms
- Sites asking for seed phrases or private keys
VERIFICATION METHODS
- Always verify PGP signatures before accessing
- Use only links from official mirror lists
- Check URL carefully for typos or variations
- Verify site design matches official market
- Never trust links from unverified sources
- Cross-reference links with multiple trusted sources
PGP VERIFICATION
PGP verification is the most reliable method to verify legitimate marketplace links. Always verify PGP signatures before accessing any mirror link.
HOW TO VERIFY
- Import the official marketplace PGP public key
- Download the mirror link signature file
- Verify the signature matches the public key
- Only access links with verified signatures
- Never trust links without PGP verification
PGP TOOLS
- GnuPG: Command-line PGP tool
- Kleopatra: Graphical PGP manager
- GPG Suite: macOS PGP tools
- Various browser extensions for PGP verification
PREVENTION STRATEGIES
BEST PRACTICES
- Bookmark verified mirror links
- Always verify PGP signatures
- Never click links from emails or messages
- Use only official mirror lists
- Double-check URLs before entering credentials
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Never share login credentials
- Be suspicious of unsolicited links
SECURITY MEASURES
- Use unique passwords for marketplace accounts
- Enable 2FA when available
- Monitor account activity regularly
- Never enter credentials on suspicious sites
- Keep PGP keys secure and private
- Verify all links through multiple sources
COMMON PHISHING TECHNIQUES
EMAIL PHISHING
Scammers send emails claiming to be from the marketplace, requesting users to verify accounts or update information. These emails contain links to fake sites.
FORUM PHISHING
Fake links posted on forums or discussion boards. Scammers create accounts and share phishing links in posts or private messages.
TYPO-SQUATTING
Scammers register domains with similar names or typos of legitimate marketplace URLs, hoping users will mistype addresses.
SOCIAL ENGINEERING
Scammers use social engineering tactics to convince users to visit fake sites, such as claiming urgent security updates or account verification.
IF YOU'VE BEEN PHISHED
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS
- Change your password immediately on the legitimate site
- Enable two-factor authentication if not already enabled
- Check account for unauthorized activity
- Withdraw any remaining funds to a secure wallet
- Report the phishing attempt to marketplace administrators
- Warn other users about the phishing site
DAMAGE CONTROL
- Review all recent transactions
- Check for unauthorized withdrawals
- Verify all account settings
- Change any shared passwords
- Consider creating a new account if compromised