📖 Darknet Glossary
Understand common terms and slang on darknet marketplaces
General Terms
- Darknet / Dark Web
- Part of internet requiring special software (Tor) for access. Used for anonymity.
- Clearnet
- Regular internet accessible without Tor (Google, Facebook, etc.)
- .onion
- Domain extension for websites only accessible via Tor network.
- Mirror
- Alternative .onion address to same website. Used for redundancy.
- DNM
- Darknet Market
Security Terms
- OPSEC
- Operations Security - Methods to protect your identity and activities.
- PGP
- Pretty Good Privacy - Encryption method for secure communication.
- 2FA / MFA
- Two-factor/Multi-factor Authentication - Extra security layer at login.
- Phishing
- Fake websites that steal login credentials.
- Dox / Doxxing
- To reveal someone's real identity online.
- Tails
- The Amnesic Incognito Live System - Secure OS that doesn't save data.
Cryptocurrency Terms
- XMR / Monero
- Anonymous cryptocurrency - Standard on modern marketplaces.
- BTC / Bitcoin
- First cryptocurrency - NOT anonymous, can be traced on blockchain.
- Swap
- Exchange between cryptocurrencies (e.g. BTC → XMR).
- KYC
- Know Your Customer - ID verification. AVOID services with KYC!
- Seed Phrase
- 25 words that can restore your wallet. NEVER SHARE!
Marketplace Terms
- Escrow
- Payment protection where marketplace holds funds until buyer confirms delivery.
- FE (Finalize Early)
- Releasing payment BEFORE delivery. AVOID - Often scam!
- Autofinalize
- Automatic confirmation after X days if buyer doesn't act.
- Dispute / Dispute
- Opening a case when problems arise with an order.
- Exit Scam
- When a marketplace or vendor disappears with all funds.
- Vendor / Vendor
- Someone selling products on the marketplace.
Shipping Terms
- Stealth
- How well a package is hidden/camouflaged.
- Drop / Drop-address
- Address not directly linked to you.
- Love Letter
- Letter from customs that a package has been seized.
- CD (Controlled Delivery)
- When police deliver a package to catch the recipient.
- Domestic / Domestic
- Delivery within same country (safer than international).