Emergence of Telegram as New Darknet for Cyber Criminals
Over time, the dark web has become infamous as a clandestine realm where illicit activities flourish. From drug trade to hacking services, it has served as a hub for unlawful operations. However, a newcomer has entered the stage, prompting speculation about its potential to evolve into a new iteration of the dark web- Telegram.
✅Initially introduced in 2013 as a messaging application, Telegram swiftly rose to prominence owing to its strong security features and encryption abilities. While originally conceived to offer a secure communication platform, it has unintentionally evolved into a fertile environment for a myriad of illicit endeavors.
✅Telegram’s ascent as a prospective new dark web can be credited to numerous factors. Firstly, its end-to-end encryption guarantees the security and privacy of messages shared on the platform. This aspect has drawn individuals and groups who desire to operate discreetly, shielded from scrutiny.
✅Telegram’s straightforward interface and ease of use have made it available to a broad spectrum of users, including those with malicious intent. This accessibility has led to the proliferation of channels and groups focused on illegal activities, such as drug dealing, weapon trading, and even human trafficking.
✅Telegram’s anonymous nature has complicated efforts by law enforcement agencies to trace criminals using the platform. Unlike the traditional dark web, which necessitates specialized software and know-how for access, Telegram is easily accessible to anyone with a smartphone. This availability has transformed it into a refuge for cybercriminals and other dubious individuals.
⛔ Reasons why #Telegram is favorites of cyber criminals
📌Encryption and Security. Telegram offers end-to-end encryption and security features, appealing to #cybercriminals seeking #privacy and evasion of law enforcement.
📌Anonymity. Users can join Telegram without providing real phone numbers, allowing cybercriminals to communicate anonymously and avoid identification.
📌Group Chats and Communities. Telegram facilitates the creation of large group chats and communities, enabling cybercriminals to easily communicate, collaborate, and share information with each other.
📌File Sharing. Cybercriminals exploit Telegram’s file-sharing feature to distribute #malware, stolen #data, pirated content, and other illegal materials.
📌Channel Broadcasting: Telegram channels enable cybercriminals to broadcast messages to a large audience anonymously, promoting services, sharing hacking tools, and facilitating illicit activities.
📌#Bot Support. Telegram’s bot support enables automated interactions, used by cybercriminals for spamming, phishing, distributing malware, and facilitating transactions on illicit marketplaces.
📌Reliability and Accessibility. Telegram’s reliability and accessibility across devices and platforms make it a preferred communication tool for cybercriminals worldwide.
📌Resistance to Censorship. Telegram’s resistance to censorship allows cybercriminals to operate with less fear of interruption or shutdown by governments or #LEA.
⛔ Cybercriminals utilize Telegram for various illicit activities
📌Communication. Telegram provides a secure and encrypted messaging platform, allowing cybercriminals to communicate with each other without fear of interception or monitoring by authorities. They use Telegram to discuss tactics, share information, and coordinate criminal activities.
📌Recruitment. Cybercriminals leverage Telegram to recruit new members into their networks. They may use private groups or channels to advertise their services, recruit hackers, or entice individuals to participate in illegal schemes such as fraud or hacking.
📌Distribution of #Malware. Telegram’s file-sharing capabilities enable cybercriminals to distribute malware such as viruses, ransomware, and trojans. They may disguise malicious files as legitimate software or documents and share them via private messages or public channels.
📌#Phishing. Cybercriminals use Telegram to conduct phishing attacks, where they impersonate legitimate entities or organizations to trick users into revealing sensitive information such as login credentials, financial details, or personal data.
📌Sale of Stolen Data. Telegram serves as a platform for cybercriminals to buy and sell stolen data, including credit card information, login credentials, and personal identifiable information (PII). They may use private groups or channels to advertise databases and negotiate transactions with interested buyers.
📌Fraudulent Activities. Cybercriminals utilize Telegram to orchestrate various fraudulent schemes, including cryptocurrency scams, investment fraud, and Ponzi schemes. They may create fake investment groups or channels to lure victims into sending money or cryptocurrency under false pretenses.
📌Illegal Marketplaces. Cybercriminals utilize Telegram to orchestrate various fraudulent schemes, including cryptocurrency scams, investment fraud, and Ponzi schemes. They may create fake investment groups or channels to lure victims into sending money or cryptocurrency under false pretenses.
📌Spamming and Phishing Campaigns. Cybercriminals use Telegram’s broadcasting feature to send spam messages and phishing links to a large number of users simultaneously. They may promote fake giveaways, fraudulent offers, or malicious websites to trick unsuspecting users into clicking on malicious links or downloading malware.
⛔The Challenges Faced by Law Enforcement
📌Infrastructure Differences. Unlike traditional dark web platforms on the Tor network, Telegram operates on regular internet infrastructure, making it more challenging for law enforcement agencies to trace and shut down illicit activities.
📌Encryption Challenges. Telegram’s encryption hampers authorities’ ability to intercept and monitor communications, presenting a significant obstacle in identifying and apprehending individuals engaged in illegal activities on the platform.
📌Global Presence and Decentralization. Telegram’s widespread usage and decentralized nature pose challenges for law enforcement agencies to coordinate efforts across jurisdictions. Criminals can exploit the platform’s anonymity and encryption to operate seamlessly across borders.
#darkweb #darknet #cybercrime #hackers #cybersecurity #phishing #malware
