Security & OPSEC Guide

Comprehensive operational security practices for darknet market users

Critical: Your privacy and security depend on following these guidelines. Cutting corners or ignoring best practices can compromise your anonymity. Read everything carefully.

OPSEC Fundamentals

What is OPSEC?

Operational Security (OPSEC) is a set of practices designed to protect sensitive information and maintain anonymity. In the context of darknet markets, proper OPSEC prevents identity exposure and maintains privacy.

Core OPSEC Principles

  • Minimize Information Leakage: Share only necessary information
  • Assume Surveillance: Act as if you're being monitored
  • Layer Security: Use multiple protection mechanisms
  • Verify Everything: Don't trust, verify
  • Separate Identities: Keep darknet activity isolated

Tor Browser - Essential Anonymity Tool

How Tor Works

Tor (The Onion Router) routes your internet traffic through multiple encrypted layers across volunteer-operated servers (nodes), making it extremely difficult to trace your activity back to you.

Tor Browser Best Practices

  • Always use the latest version (auto-update enabled)
  • Use Tor Browser's built-in security slider (set to "Safer" or "Safest")
  • Never maximize the window (fingerprinting risk)
  • Disable JavaScript for maximum security (breaks some sites)
  • Clear cookies and site data after each session
  • Never use browser plugins or extensions
  • Never torrent over Tor (exposes real IP)
  • Never log into clearnet accounts while using Tor
Tor Project - GitHub Repository

Video Tutorial: Tor Browser Security

Video by The Hated One - "How to use Tor Browser for Maximum Anonymity"

VPN - When and How to Use

Should You Use VPN with Tor?

This is a debated topic in the privacy community. Here's what you need to know:

VPN → Tor Configuration

Pros:

  • Hides Tor usage from your ISP
  • Useful in countries where Tor is blocked
  • Adds an extra layer of protection

Cons:

  • VPN provider can see you're using Tor
  • Must trust VPN provider
  • Potential performance slowdown

Recommended VPN Providers (Privacy-Focused)

  • Mullvad VPN - No email required, anonymous account numbers
  • ProtonVPN - Swiss-based, strong privacy laws
  • IVPN - Independent audit, accepts cryptocurrency
Mullvad VPN - Open Source Client
Important: Never use free VPN services. They often log user data and may sell information to third parties. If you can't pay for VPN, use Tor alone.

PGP Encryption - Secure Communications

Why PGP is Mandatory

PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) encryption ensures that only you and the recipient can read your messages. Prime Market requires PGP for:

  • Account recovery information
  • Sensitive communications with vendors
  • Shipping address encryption
  • Dispute evidence submission

PGP Tools by Operating System

Windows:

macOS:

Linux:

  • GnuPG (pre-installed on most distributions)
  • Command line: gpg --full-generate-key
GnuPG - Official Repository

Video Tutorial: PGP Encryption

Video by Mental Outlaw - "Complete PGP Encryption Tutorial for Beginners"

Tails OS - Maximum Privacy Operating System

What is Tails?

Tails (The Amnesic Incognito Live System) is a security-focused Linux distribution that runs from a USB stick and leaves no trace on the computer. It's the gold standard for darknet OPSEC.

Why Use Tails?

  • Forces all connections through Tor
  • Leaves no traces on host computer
  • Includes built-in encryption tools (PGP, etc.)
  • Runs from USB - portable and secure
  • Wipes RAM on shutdown

Installing Tails

  1. Download Tails from tails.boum.org
  2. Verify the download (PGP signature or checksum)
  3. Create bootable USB with Balena Etcher or Rufus
  4. Boot from USB (may need to change BIOS settings)
  5. Configure persistent storage (optional but recommended)
Tails OS - GitLab Repository

Video Tutorial: Tails OS Setup

Video by Techlore - "Complete Tails OS Tutorial and Installation Guide"

Operational Security Checklist

Before Accessing Prime Market

  • - Using Tor Browser (or Tails OS)
  • - VPN connected (if using VPN strategy)
  • - JavaScript disabled (if security level allows)
  • - Verified .onion address from trusted source
  • - PGP key pair generated and backed up

During Market Usage

  • - Never reveal personal information
  • - Encrypt all sensitive communications with PGP
  • - Use different usernames across platforms
  • - Don't discuss orders outside marketplace
  • - Clear Tor cookies after each session

After Transactions

  • - Withdraw remaining balance to personal wallet
  • - Delete sensitive messages after finalizing orders
  • - Keep PGP encrypted backups of important data
  • - Regularly rotate passwords

Common OPSEC Mistakes to Avoid

Using Clearnet Browser

Never access darknet markets with Chrome, Firefox, or other clearnet browsers. Always use Tor Browser.

Reusing Passwords

Don't use the same password across multiple sites. Use a password manager and generate unique passwords.

Sharing Account Info

Never share your account credentials, recovery codes, or PGP private key with anyone, including support staff.

Discussing Orders Publicly

Don't post about your orders on forums, social media, or messaging apps. This compromises your anonymity.

Using Personal Email

Never link darknet accounts to personal email addresses. Use anonymous, disposable emails if required.

Ignoring PGP

Don't skip PGP encryption for sensitive data like shipping addresses. It's your primary protection layer.

Advanced OPSEC Techniques

For Maximum Anonymity

  • Use Whonix: Isolates Tor in a virtual machine for enhanced security
  • Cryptocurrency Mixing: Use coin mixers or CoinJoin for Bitcoin transactions
  • Use Monero: Privacy-focused cryptocurrency with built-in mixing
  • Air-Gapped PGP: Keep PGP keys on offline computer
  • Dedicated Hardware: Use separate computer/phone for darknet activity
  • MAC Address Spoofing: Randomize hardware address (Tails does this automatically)

Video: Complete OPSEC Guide

Video by Naomi Brockwell TV - "The Complete Privacy & Security Guide"