Download This PaperAvailability of COVID-19 Related Products on Tor Darknet Markets
Broadhurst R, Ball M & Jiang C 2020. Availability of COVID-19 Related Products on Tor Darknet Markets. Statistical Bulletin no. 24. Canberra: Australian Institute of Criminology.
12 Pages Posted: 29 Apr 2020 Last revised: 15 May 2020
Date Written: April 10, 2020
Abstract
Twenty Tor darknet markets were surveyed on 3 April 2020 to conduct a census of COVID-19 related medical products and supplies. There were 645 listings, including 222 unique listings, of COVID-19 related products across 12 markets. Three markets accounted for 85 percent of all unique listings identified.
Of the 110 vendors identified, eight were active in multiple markets. A small proportion of vendors accounted for most listings. The estimated value of all unique listings was A$369,000.
Personal protective equipment accounted for nearly half of all unique listings, and one third of products were antiviral or repurposed medicines. Supposed vaccines, tests and diagnostic instruments each accounted for nearly 10 percent of listings.
Note: This is a paper published by the Australian Institute of Criminology in Statistical Bulletin on 30/04/2020, available online: https://www.aic.gov.au/publications/sb/sb24.”
Keywords: cybercrime, cryptomarkets, fake medicine, COVID-19 scams
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Roderic Broadhurst (Contact Author)
School of Regulation & Global Governance (RegNet) ( email )
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 0200
Australia