Crime is transitioning into a more digital setting these days. Traditional criminal operations become harder to execute and require a lot of logistical preparation. Online crime, on the other hand, is much more approachable. Over in Croatia, the shift to online crime is very noticeable, and most of the activity is taking place on deep web marketplaces.
Croatia Is A Darknet Crime Hub To Reckon With
The increase in online crime in Croatia was first noted by news outlet Novilist. Thanks to the anonymity aspect provided by the Tor Network, and the sheer popularity of darknet marketplaces, it makes sense for criminals to shift their activities to the Internet. As a result, it becomes much more difficult for law enforcement agents to crack down on crime in the country.
So far, law enforcement agencies have completed their investigation of several deep web cases. The vast majority of online crime related to buying and selling drugs, as well as dealing in stolen financial information such as credit card dumps and bank accounts. Considering how the deep web gives anyone access to all kinds of products and services, the global appeal continues to increase every quarter.
Croatian High-tech Crime Department’s Kristina Posavec stated:
“There are plenty of these dark net markets that offer absolutely everything – from drugs, weapons and stolen personal information to child pornography, credit card information and illicit drugs. Absolutely everything, whatever you wish, you can find there. If someone wants to get drugs he no longer needs to look for dealers in dark alleys when you can order drugs that will arrive at your home address, packed in a box of CDs or a box of chocolates. This is one of the most popular methods because it is more convenient and easier. A 14-15-year-old child can easily order drugs from the living room, without the knowledge of his parents.”
Despite the increase in online crime, the Tor Network is not only used for criminal activity. Plenty of people use the technology to remain anonymous on the Internet or hide their real IP location for legitimate purposes. People access Facebook through Tor, and journalists rely on the network to work in anonymity.
That being said, the rise in darknet crimes has Croatian officials concerned. Revealing user identities is far more challenging than before, as tracing the digital breadcrumbs can be a challenge. Additionally, there are roughly 1,200 deep web crime cases reported every year, indicating this new form of crime needs to be taken seriously.
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