By Trend News Line 2024-06-20 05:46:16.
**Dark Web Marketplace Operators Arrested in Chicago**
You may also like to watch : Who Is Kamala Harris? Biography - Parents - Husband - Sister - Career - Indian - Jamaican Heritage
In a recent development in the cybercrime world, two individuals behind the illegal dark web marketplace known as “Empire Market” have been apprehended in Chicago. The United States Department of Justice has taken action against Thomas Pavey, also known as “Dopenugget”, and Raheim Hamilton, who goes by the aliases “Sydney” and “Zero Angel”.
**Charges and Indictments**
The accused duo faces a slew of charges, including money laundering, computer fraud, access device fraud, counterfeiting, and drug trafficking. The charges range from selling counterfeit U.S. currency on AlphaBay to distributing controlled substances through their online platform, Empire Market. The gravity of these crimes could result in a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for the perpetrators.
**Seizure of Assets**
You may also like to watch: Is US-NATO Prepared For A Potential Nuclear War With Russia - China And North Korea?
Law enforcement authorities have seized a significant amount of assets linked to the illegal operation, including $75 million worth of cryptocurrency, cash, and precious metals. This confiscation aims to prevent the accused from benefiting from their illicit activities and serves as a deterrent to others involved in similar cybercrimes.
**Empire Market Operation**
Operating between February 2018 and 2020, Empire Market facilitated over $430 million worth of illegal transactions. The marketplace offered a range of illicit goods and services, from drugs and credit card numbers to malware and counterfeit currency. Payment options on the platform included popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Monero.
**Shutdown and Fallout**
The abrupt closure of Empire Market in 2020 left users unable to access their funds, sparking accusations of an exit scam. The shutdown was attributed to ongoing DDoS attacks and extortion tactics, highlighting the volatile nature of dark web marketplaces and the risks associated with engaging in illegal online activities.
**Significance of Arrest**
The arrest of the individuals behind Empire Market marks a significant milestone in combating cybercrime on the dark web. With the deep and dark web comprising a vast majority of Internet content, law enforcement efforts to dismantle illegal operations are crucial in safeguarding online security and disrupting criminal networks.
**Insights and Future Implications**
The investigation into Empire Market and the subsequent arrests shed light on the intricate network of cybercrime and the challenges faced by authorities in tackling illicit online activities. The closure of such marketplaces may lead to the discovery of more clandestine operations, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance and collaborative efforts to combat cyber threats.
In conclusion, the arrest of the operators of Empire Market serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against cybercriminals operating in the shadows of the Internet. By dismantling illegal platforms and holding perpetrators accountable, law enforcement agencies aim to safeguard online users and uphold the integrity of the digital landscape..
Dark Web Marketplace Fraud Busted
Dark Web Marketplace Fraud Scheme.
