When it comes to purchasing firearms online, one of the most notorious places to do so is on the dark web. The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that is not accessible through traditional search engines, making it an ideal marketplace for illegal activities.
According to Thomas Holt, a researcher at Michigan State University, only a small fraction (four percent) of the guns available on the dark web are military-grade and automatic. These types of firearms can only be purchased legally from licensed stores or vendors. One of the Armory’s most easily recognizable items is a $2,800 AK-47 rifle that is on sale, down from the sticker price of $3,600.
America Is Driving Gun Sales On The Dark Web
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and requires specific software to access. It is often used by individuals seeking anonymity for various reasons, including illegal activities such as buying and selling guns.
Evidence Identification, Access, And Preservation
They usually steer clear of meeting customers in person and never take even remotely traceable payments. Another revelation is that the weapons available are far newer, and are of a far higher quality, than would have been available on the analog black market. As New Scientist points out, “lax gun laws in the US are undermining stricter rules elsewhere,” especially in Europe. In addition to guns and ammunition, people can buy tutorials explaining how to make bombs or convert or reactivate replica and deactivated firearms. Weapons, drugs and stolen identities are readily available on the dark web, a hidden part of the internet that you can only access through special browsers like Tor. Entrapment — Concerns were expressed over the possibility of legal actions for entrapment brought by web users conducting business on dark web marketplaces created by law enforcement, the report said.
How Does the Dark Web Gun Market Work?
- Access: Users typically access the dark web using specialized software like Tor.
- Transactions: Buyers and sellers use cryptocurrency like Bitcoin for transactions to maintain anonymity.
- Delivery: Guns purchased on the dark web are often shipped discreetly to avoid detection.
Is Buying Guns on the Dark Web Legal?
Spodek Law In The Media
No, purchasing guns on the dark web is illegal in most countries. The lack of regulation and oversight on the dark web makes it a risky and dangerous place to conduct any kind of transaction, especially when it involves firearms.
Why Do People Buy Guns on the Dark Web?
Cannazon Market
There are several reasons why individuals may turn to the dark web for purchasing guns:
- Anonymity: Buyers can remain anonymous and avoid background checks.
- Availability: Some types of guns may be difficult to obtain legally in certain countries.
- Criminal Intent: Individuals with malicious intentions may seek out illegal firearms for criminal activities.
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- In France, firearm applicants are subjected to rigorous background checks and sales are denied to those with criminal records.
- However, ATF’s ability to inspect inventory and records of online firearm sellers is limited compared to brick-and-mortar shops.
- “The volume can be considered sufficiently high to be cause for concern for policy makers and law enforcement agencies” the report reads.
- Another emerging challenge is untraceable “ghost guns” manufactured from parts and kits at home.
Are There Risks to Buying Guns on the Dark Web?
Yes, there are significant risks associated with purchasing guns on the dark web:
- Legal Consequences: Buying guns illegally can result in severe legal penalties.
- Safety Concerns: Illegal firearms could be faulty or pose a danger to the buyer and others.
- Scams: There is a high risk of being scammed or receiving fake products on the dark web.
Conclusion
While the dark web gun market may offer a cloak of anonymity, the risks and consequences far outweigh any potential benefits. Purchasing firearms through legal and regulated channels is always the safest and most responsible choice.
