Dark Web and AI in 2025

Dark Web Markets in 2025

In 2024, dark web markets persist in their enigmatic existence, serving as hubs for unlawful activities such as drug trafficking and the trade of stolen data. These platforms leverage the anonymity provided by the Tor network, and sometimes operate openly on the clear web, complicating law enforcement's efforts to dismantle them. Each market, with its unique characteristics, challenges authorities and continuously pushes the limits of cybercrime. 

1. Torzon Market 

Established in September 2022, Torzon Market offers over 11,000 illicit products, including drugs, hacking guides, and counterfeit goods. Torzon Market also provides premium accounts with perks. Valued at approximately $15 million, Torzon has attracted a substantial customer base, with transactions primarily conducted in Bitcoin and Monero.

 

2. 2easy 

Active since 2020, 2easy is a marketplace specializing in the sale of Stealer Logs—sensitive data extracted via malware. The market offers stolen data, including passwords, credit card information, and initial access credentials used for ransomware attacks.

 

3. MGM Grand Market 

Established in April 2021, MGM Grand Market prioritises user experience with an interface optimised for mobile devices. Accessible via the Tor network, this market offers over 16,000 illegal items, primarily drugs and fraudulent products. 


Valued at around $3 million, MGM Grand Market attracts numerous users seeking quick and secure transactions using Bitcoin. =


4. Abacus Market 

In September 2021, Abacus Market quickly established itself as a prominent dark web marketplace, drawing users from defunct platforms. It boasts over 40,000 listings, including drugs, fraudulent digital products, piracy services, and malware. 


Abacus Market remains a popular destination for cybercriminals seeking to trade stolen personal information or counterfeit goods. 


5. FreshTools 

Operating since 2019 on the clear web, FreshTools specialises in the sale of stolen accounts. This market offers over 800,000 products, including leads, compromised RDP accounts, hacked WordPress sites, and other digital services. Its specific focus on hacked accounts and sensitive data distinguishes it from other dark web players. 

 

6. Cypher Marketplace 

Launched in February 2020, Cypher Marketplace offers a variety of illicit products, including stolen credit cards, counterfeit goods, fraud guides, and malware. Operating on the Tor network, Cypher prioritises user anonymity and security, with a particular focus on the sale of fraudulent documents.

 

7. BidenCash 

Since its inception in 2022, BidenCash has rapidly expanded, specializing in the sale of stolen credit cards and personal data. The market is notorious for releasing millions of stolen data for free as an advertising tactic to attract cybercriminals. 


In addition to offering credit cards and identification information, BidenCash uses cryptocurrencies to ensure the anonymity of transactions.

 

8. BriansClub 

Founded in 2014, BriansClub is one of the oldest and most notorious dark web markets. Its primary focus is the trade of stolen credit cards and personal information. BriansClub operates on both the surface web and Tor, utilizing a variety of cryptocurrencies such as USDT, Dash, and Monero to enhance anonymity. 



In addition to offering Dumps, CVV2, and Fullz (comprehensive identity theft kits), BriansClub has established a strong reputation among financial fraudsters. This market remains a cornerstone of the dark web, providing tools specifically designed to facilitate unauthorised transactions. 

AI in 2025 

The Impact of AI on the Dark Web Economy 

In recent years, the dark web has evolved into a complex and bustling marketplace where illicit activities thrive. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), this underground economy has experienced significant changes, amplifying both the scale and sophistication of cybercriminal endeavors. Let's delve into how AI has reshaped the dark web economy and what it means for the future of cybersecurity. 


Automation of Cybercrime 

One of the most profound impacts of AI on the dark web economy is the automation of cybercrime. Advanced AI algorithms have streamlined tasks that were once labor-intensive and time-consuming. For instance, data scraping, credential stuffing, and phishing can now be performed with unprecedented speed and efficiency. This automation has led to a surge in the volume of illicit transactions, making it easier for cybercriminals to obtain and trade stolen data. 

 

Enhanced Precision of Attacks 

AI-driven tools have significantly improved the precision of cyberattacks. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify vulnerabilities and craft highly targeted attacks. This level of precision makes it harder for traditional security measures to detect and mitigate threats. As a result, cybercriminals can execute more effective and damaging attacks, increasing their success rate and profitability. 

 

Diversification of Illicit Services 

AI has also contributed to the diversification of services offered on the dark web. Cybercriminals can now provide AI-generated fake identities, which are nearly indistinguishable from real ones, and machine learning-enhanced malware that adapts to evade detection. These advanced services attract a broader range of clientele, from novice hackers to organised crime syndicates, further fueling the growth of the dark web economy.

 

Lowered Entry Barriers 

The use of AI has lowered the entry barriers for aspiring cybercriminals. Sophisticated attack tools and services are now available as "crime-as-a-service" offerings, allowing individuals with limited technical skills to launch complex attacks. This democratization of cybercrime has led to an influx of new actors in the dark web marketplace, increasing competition and driving innovation. 

 

Challenges for Law Enforcement 

The integration of AI into the dark web economy poses significant challenges for law enforcement agencies. The automation and precision of AI-driven attacks make it difficult to track and apprehend cybercriminals. Additionally, the anonymity provided by the dark web, coupled with the use of cryptocurrencies for transactions, complicates efforts to trace illegal activities and dismantle criminal networks.


Advanced Security Solutions for Dark Web Dangers  

To counter dark web threats, organizations are increasingly adopting cutting-edge security measures.

 

Here are some of the most effective strategies: 

  • AI-Driven Defense Mechanisms
    Utilise AI and machine learning to detect and thwart cyber-attacks in real-time. These systems can identify anomalies and potential threats, such as ransomware and phishing attacks, before they cause significant harm.

  • Dark Web Monitoring Tools 
    Continuously scan the dark web for mentions of an organization's sensitive data. This enables companies to act swiftly if their data appears on hidden platforms, reducing the risk of data breaches.

    Introducing     Addictive's Dark Web Scan & Report service; We continuously monitor the dark web for any mentions of your organization's sensitive data. This proactive approach allows companies to swiftly respond if their data surfaces on hidden platforms, significantly reducing the risk of data breaches and potential cyber threats. With our comprehensive scanning and detailed reporting, you can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and protect your valuable information. Trust Addictive to safeguard your digital assets and maintain your organization's security. 


  • Zero Trust Authentication 
    Use a software with passwordless security solutions, eliminating the need for traditional passwords, which are often susceptible to breaches. This approach ensures that only authenticated users can access sensitive information.

  • Comprehensive Cybersecurity Services 
    Search for providers that offer end-to-end dark web monitoring and protection services. Their advanced tools scan unindexed sites and encrypted pages to detect data leakages and prevent security breaches.

    By employing these advanced security measures, organizations can better shield themselves against the ever-evolving threats posed by the dark web. 

How we can strengthen your cybersecurity? 

With the rapid evolution of dark web markets, it's crucial for companies to remain vigilant. We provide solutions for proactive monitoring of the dark web, helping organizations protect themselves against cyber threats originating from these illegal platforms.

Our services include: 

  • Real-time cyberthreat monitoring 
  • Advanced vulnerability scanning and personal data leak detection 
  • Security tools to prevent and counter attacks related to stolen data 
  • Leveraging the most advanced technologies, We help companies identify and neutralise threats before they escalate into major security incidents. 


Get your free Dark Web Scan and report with Addictive Technology Solutions. 

 

In our increasingly digital world, the dark web harbors numerous threats that can seriously jeopardise your personal and financial information. The Addictive Technology Solutions’ scan service is expertly crafted to help you identify any potential breaches or alarming exposures that could compromise your security. By leveraging our advanced scanning technology, we delve deep into the dark web to uncover hidden risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. 

 

If you are seeking proactive strategies and innovative security solutions to mitigate the dangers associated with the dark web, look no further than Addictive Technology Solutions. Our knowledgeable team is equipped with the expertise to assist you in fortifying your online presence, protecting your sensitive information, and providing you with the peace of mind you deserve. 

 

We invite you to reach out for more information or to discuss your specific security needs. Don’t hesitate—take the first step towards enhanced protection today! 


A Small Business Guide

A Small Business Guide to Getting Started with AI and Microsoft Copilot

By Robert Marsden • February 19, 2025
A Small Business Guide to Getting Started with AI and Microsoft Copilot
A man in a suit and tie is sitting in front of a computer.

Understanding the Essential 8 Cybersecurity Initiative: What It Is and How We Can Help

By Robert Marsden • August 20, 2024
In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. The Australian government has developed the Essential 8 cybersecurity initiative to help organisations protect themselves against cyber threats. In this blog post, we’ll explain what the Essential 8 is, whether it is mandatory, and how Addictive Technology Solutions can help your business implement these strategies. What is the Essential 8? The Essential 8 is a set of eight mitigation strategies developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) to help organisations improve their cybersecurity posture. These strategies are designed to make it much harder for adversaries to compromise systems. The Essential 8 focuses on preventing cyberattacks, limiting the impact of attacks, and ensuring data availability. The Eight Strategies Application Control : This strategy involves preventing the execution of unapproved or malicious applications. By controlling which applications can run on your systems, you can reduce the risk of malware infections. Patch Applications : Regularly updating applications to protect against known vulnerabilities is crucial. Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software to gain access to systems. Configure Microsoft Office Macros : Macros are small programs that can automate tasks in Microsoft Office. However, they can also be used to deliver malware. Configuring macros to only run from trusted locations can help prevent malicious code execution. User Application Hardening : This involves configuring applications to reduce their attack surface. For example, disabling unnecessary features and blocking risky file types can help protect against exploits. Restrict Administrative Privileges : Limiting administrative privileges reduces the risk of malicious activity. Only granting admin rights to those who need them can help prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. Patch Operating Systems : Keeping operating systems up to date is essential to protect against vulnerabilities. Regular patching ensures that your systems are protected against known threats. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) : Implementing MFA enhances user authentication security. By requiring multiple forms of verification, you can make it harder for attackers to gain access to your systems. Regular Backups : Ensuring regular backups of important data is crucial for data recovery in case of a cyber incident. Regular backups help ensure that your data is safe and can be quickly restored. Is Essential 8 Mandatory? The Essential 8 is highly recommended by the Australian government, but it is not mandatory for all organisations. However, it is mandatory for non-corporate Commonwealth entities (NCCEs) and federal government agencies . For other organisations, while it is not legally required, implementing the Essential 8 is considered best practice for improving cybersecurity and protecting against cyber threats. How Addictive Technology Solutions Can Help At Addictive Technology Solutions , we understand the importance of cybersecurity and the challenges that businesses face in implementing effective security measures. Our managed IT services are designed to help your business implement the Essential 8 strategies and improve your overall cybersecurity posture. Here’s how we can help: Application Control : We can help you implement application control measures to prevent the execution of unapproved or malicious applications. Our team will work with you to identify and whitelist trusted applications, reducing the risk of malware infections. Patch Management : Keeping your applications and operating systems up to date is crucial for protecting against vulnerabilities. We offer patch management services to ensure that your software is regularly updated and protected against known threats. Macro Configuration : Configuring Microsoft Office macros to only run from trusted locations can help prevent malicious code execution. Our team can help you implement these configurations to enhance your security. User Application Hardening : We can help you configure your applications to reduce their attack surface. By disabling unnecessary features and blocking risky file types, we can help protect your systems against exploits. Administrative Privileges Management : Limiting administrative privileges is essential for reducing the risk of malicious activity. We can help you implement policies and procedures to ensure that admin rights are only granted to those who need them. Multi-Factor Authentication : Implementing MFA enhances user authentication security. Our team can help you set up MFA for your systems, making it harder for attackers to gain access. Backup Solutions : Regular backups are crucial for data recovery in case of a cyber incident. We offer backup solutions to ensure that your data is safe and can be quickly restored. Proactive Monitoring and Maintenance : Our proactive monitoring and maintenance services help identify and resolve issues before they impact your business. We continuously monitor your systems to ensure they are running smoothly and securely. The Essential 8 cybersecurity initiative is a set of strategies designed to help organisations protect themselves against cyber threats. While it is not mandatory for all organisations, implementing the Essential 8 is considered best practice for improving cybersecurity. At Addictive Technology Solutions, we are committed to helping your business implement these strategies and enhance your overall security posture. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help secure your systems and protect your data.
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