As Naked Security recently revealed , many of the drugs used to fight coronavirus are available on the Dark Web .
The Dark Web is a part of the internet known for the illegal activities that take place there. And of course the pandemic couldn't help but reach there.
A large number of sellers on the platformsee coronavirus tests and antiviral drugs as an opportunity to make a lot of easy money from those willing to pay for these products.
Naked Security's latest investigation has brought to light many details about the type of drugs and the amounts involved in these transactions.
COVID-19 tests and drugs immediately available on the Dark Web
Empire Market, one of the Dark Web's largest platforms for trading illegal goods, contains a category called Drug and Chemicals , which includes various coronavirus.
One of the sellers in this category claimed to have unlimited supplies of hydroxychloroquine pills. According to the report, he was selling 9,000 of the pills for $1,194.
Other experimental drugs such as favipiravir and a combination of lopinavir and ritonavir are also being sold on the Dark Web. The combination drugs are also used to treat AIDS.
The epidemic appears to have greatly increased the number of registrations, which saw a 42% increase from last year.
John Shier, who conducted the research, noted that there were also several legitimate HIV tests available on the Dark Web. However, there is no guarantee that the tests presented on these sites are the same as the ones buyers will ultimately receive.
From medicines to masks, one can find anything they want for tens of dollars on the Dark Web, while they can order the quantity they desire.
Increase in coronavirus-related scams
In times of crisis, there are always those who will exploit the situation for profit. And often the consequences are only financial. However, in a health crisis, illegal drugs and products available on such illegal sitescan be dangerous for people's health, so it is preferable for consumers not to turn to these markets, no matter how tempting they may seem.
