Creating New Dark Web: Discord vs Telegram
In recent years, the Dark Web has become a notorious hub for illegal activities, ranging from drug trafficking to cybercrime. However, the popularity of traditional Dark Web platforms like Tor and I2P has been declining as new communication channels have emerged. Among these channels, Discord and Telegram have gained significant attention from the Dark Web community due to their encrypted messaging and anonymity features. Both platforms offer a similar range of functionalities, but there are distinct differences between them that can impact their suitability for creating a new Dark Web. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using Discord and Telegram as communication channels for the Dark Web and evaluate which platform may be better suited for creating a new Dark Web for cybercriminals.
Discord
Discord has become one of the largest and most popular communication platforms on the internet. The platform was initially created for gamers to chat, share media and play games; however, it has since expanded its user base to include a vast network of individuals from various industries, interest groups, and communities. But with such an extensive network and the nature of online anonymity, Discord has quickly become a favorite tool for cybercriminals who use it for nefarious activities. In fact, cybercriminals are increasingly using Discord as a new dark web, one that provides a secure and accessible platform for their activities.
Why do Cybercriminals Want to Use Discord?
One of the reasons why Discord has become such an attractive platform for cybercriminals is its ease of use. Unlike the dark web, which requires specialized knowledge and software to access, Discord can be downloaded and used by anyone. Additionally, Discord’s interface is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for even novice users to navigate.
Another factor that makes Discord appealing to cybercriminals is its anonymity. Users can create accounts without providing any personal information, and Discord does not require users to verify their identity in any way. This anonymity makes it difficult for law enforcement to track down cybercriminals using the platform. Discord also provides an added layer of security for cybercriminals. The platform has features that let users easily switch to new accounts whenever necessary, making it more difficult for their activities to be traced back to them. Additionally, Discord encrypts user voice and data transmissions, making it harder for external parties to listen in on conversations.
Another advantage of Discord for cybercriminals is the ease of communication it provides. The platform has a built-in VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system that allows users to make voice or video calls. This makes it easier for cybercriminals to conduct their illegal activities and coordinate their schemes effectively. Cybercriminals are attracted to Discord’s features that allow them to operate anonymously, make encrypted voice calls, and share files. Discord servers, which are dedicated to specific topics or themes, also enable cybercriminals to easily find like-minded individuals who share their interests, skills, and expertise. For instance, hackers can use Discord servers to share hacking tools, manuals, and scripts and recruit new members into their criminal groups. On the dark web, criminals usually need advanced technical skills and knowledge to access and use hacking tools, but with Discord, these tools are easily accessible to any interested party.
Another aspect that makes Discord attractive to cybercriminals is the lack of moderation on the platform. Discord is a decentralized platform, which means that, unlike social media sites, it is not subject to government regulations. This makes it easier for cybercriminals to operate with little or no oversight or consequences.
One of the critical attractions of Discord for cybercriminals is the ability to create private chat rooms or channels, which are invite-only.
Another advantage of Discord is its integration with other tools commonly used by cybercriminals, such as cryptocurrency wallets and payment processors. This makes it easy for cybercriminals to conduct transactions without leaving the app, and it can be difficult for law enforcement to trace these transactions.
How are Cybercriminals Using Discord?
So, how are cybercriminals using Discord? One common use is for selling stolen data, such as credit card information, login credentials, and personal information. Cybercriminals will create Discord servers dedicated to the sale of this information and use various methods to attract buyers, such as offering bulk discounts or promising high-quality data.
Another use of Discord by cybercriminals is for phishing campaigns. They will use the platform to distribute phishing links or malware, often disguised as legitimate software updates or downloads. Once users click on these links or download the malware, cybercriminals can gain access to their personal information or take control of their devices.
Discord has also been used by cybercriminals to coordinate and launch DDoS attacks. They will use the platform to recruit other hackers and discuss the details of the attack, such as the target, the methods to be used, and the timing.
What are the Real Case Scenarios?
There have been several instances where Discord has been linked to high-profile cybercrimes. For example, in 2020, a group of hackers used Discord to coordinate a massive Twitter hack that compromised the accounts of several high-profile individuals, including Elon Musk and Barack Obama. The hackers used the compromised Twitter accounts to promote a Bitcoin scam, which earned them over $100,000 in cryptocurrency.
In a nutshell, Discord has become a new favorite platform for cybercriminals due to its ease of use, anonymity, and user-friendly interface. Its use as a tool for conducting various types of cybercrime, such as selling stolen data, phishing, and DDoS attacks, is becoming more common. Moreover, Discord developers put a lot of emphasis on privacy and security, which makes it appealing to cybercriminals. Discord uses end-to-end encryption for its messages and keeps users’ information anonymous. This means that communication on the platform is secure, and it is difficult to trace the messages back to the users. Authorities and internet service providers need to monitor and regulate Discord to prevent it from becoming a new dark web for cybercrime. As a user, it’s essential to be cautious and vigilant of suspicious activities or invitations to join unknown communities to prevent becoming a victim of cybercrime.
Telegram
Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging app that has become increasingly popular in recent years, boasting over 500 million active users worldwide. Initially designed as a tool for secure communication, Telegram has become a hub for cybercriminal activities, making it a new dark web for malicious actors.
Why do Cybercriminals Want to Use Telegram?
One of the reasons why Telegram is attractive to cybercriminals is its high level of this encryption. One of the primary features of Telegram is its highly secure end-to-end encryption (only the sender and recipient of a message can read it) which makes communication on the app highly secure and difficult to intercept. This means that law enforcement agencies cannot easily intercept and read the messages exchanged between cybercriminals.
The app allows for the creation of public or private channels where users can share messages, files, and other documents with subscribers. The channels are meant for any user with interest in the topic and are used extensively by cybercriminals to distribute malware and phishing kits or share tips for exploiting systems.
Another factor that makes Telegram appealing to cybercriminals is the anonymity it provides. Users can create accounts without providing any personal information, and there is no requirement to verify their identity. Also, when users sign up for Telegram, they don’t need to provide any personal information by default, making it easy for cybercriminals to operate under the radar. Additionally, Telegram’s encrypted chat system allows users to mask their identity or location, making it impossible to trace their activities. This makes it difficult for law enforcement to track down criminals using the platform.
Telegram has also become popular among cybercriminals as it provides advanced features that are not available on other app platforms. Cybercriminals can easily exchange messages, media files, and documents and even run bots in groups, making it easier for them to manage and conduct their illegal activities centrally.
Another advantage of Telegram is its flexibility. The app allows users to create bots, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as distributing malware or conducting phishing campaigns.
How are Cybercriminals Using Telegram?
Cybercriminals are using Telegram for a wide variety of illegal activities. One common use is for the sale of stolen data, such as login credentials and credit card information. Cybercriminals will create Telegram channels specifically for selling this type of information, and they may use various tactics to attract buyers, such as offering discounts for bulk purchases.
Another use of Telegram by cybercriminals is for phishing campaigns. Cybercriminals will use the platform to distribute phishing links or malware disguised as legitimate software updates or downloads. Once users click on these links or download the malware, the criminals can gain access to their personal information or take control of their devices.
Telegram is also being used for coordinating and launching Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Cybercriminals can use the platform to recruit other hackers and plan out the details of the attack, such as the target, the methods to be used, and the timing.
Moreover, Telegram has a thriving market for hacking tools, malware, and information thievery. The app allows for the easy retrieval of live trading data, among other sensitive information, which malicious actors can use for insider trading or data leakage. Telegram communities or groups can access and harness the collective power of the participants, making it easier to target vulnerable systems for exploitation.
What are the Real Case Scenarios?
There have been several instances where Telegram has been linked to high-profile cybercrimes. For example, in 2019, a group of hackers used Telegram to coordinate a massive malware campaign that targeted several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The malware was designed to steal sensitive information from government and private organizations.
In a nutshell, Telegram has become a thriving environment for the exchange of hacking tools and the distribution of malware by malicious actors, making it a new dark web. The app’s advanced features, coupled with secure communication and anonymity, make it a top choice for cybercriminals worldwide. However, as Telegram’s role in cybercrime grows, the public and regulatory authorities must take notice and implement measures to reduce and mitigate cybercrime on the platform. As individuals, it’s essential to exercise caution when joining Telegram channels or participating in Telegram activities, especially those that require personal information.
So, do cybercriminals choose Discord or Telegram? Discord vs Telegram
The answer is not straightforward, as both platforms offer advantages and disadvantages. It ultimately depends on the specific needs of the cyber criminals and the type of illegal activities they are looking to conduct. Discord may be preferred for its ease of use and integration with other tools, while Telegram may be preferred for its high level of encryption and flexibility.
Discord is particularly attractive to criminals because conversations between users cannot be easily monitored due to its peer-to-peer architecture. Similarly, Telegram offers end-to-end encryption which makes monitoring conversation difficult even for skilled security personnel. Together these two third-party applications provide an extremely clandestine environment in comparison to traditional chat rooms or internet forums that require some form of privacy measure but not necessarily 100% secrecy.
Discord also offers voice and video chat features, which can be useful for cybercriminals who want to communicate with each other in real time. However, these features can also make it easier for law enforcement to track down criminals, as they can monitor voice conversations and identify participants.
Telegram offers more anonymity than Discord, as users do not need to provide personal information when creating an account. Additionally, Telegram’s secret chat feature allows users to have end-to-end encrypted conversations that are not stored on Telegram’s servers, providing an extra layer of security.
Furthermore, the security of Telegram is exceptional. For instance, Telegram’s policy does not allow any monitoring or interception of user communication, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to apprehend or prosecute cybercriminals on the platform.
Another reason why cybercriminals prefer Telegram is its bot functionality. Telegram bots have capabilities to automate tasks, manage groups, and stay anonymous. This is useful for distributing malware, phishing kits, or sharing tips for exploiting systems.
In a nutshell, Discord and Telegram are both popular messaging apps among cyber criminals. Both platforms offer features that make them attractive to criminals, such as encryption and anonymity. Ultimately, the choice between Discord and Telegram depends on the specific needs of the cyber criminals and the type of illegal activities they are looking to conduct. Regardless of the platform used, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to be aware of the risks associated with these apps and take appropriate measures to protect themselves.
It’s no surprise then that authorities around the world feel increasingly threatened by this development — especially in countries with more draconian censorship laws where access to a public platform could mean imprisonment just discussing political matters online without permission from government officials would constitute breaking at least one local law (if not multiple). In response governments are openly speaking out against encrypted messaging apps while many tech companies such as Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, etc struggle figure out ways comply when faced mounting pressure various regulatory bodies including US Senate, European Commission, etc. all whom attempting implement stricter surveillance mechanisms gain potential ability target eliminate criminal communication via discord telegram black market websites other miscellaneous unauthorized resources deemed inaccessible secure mainstream means communication if those measures ultimately proven effective widespread global nightmare may pushed dark corners web never see light day again effectively eradicating threat posed their very existence modern connected communities once follow up report conducted thoroughly educate yourself dangers enjoying freedom existing digital era will make you better prepared prevent making vulnerable mistakes understanding risk incentivizes action takes protect future everyone concerned.
