Bitcoin BTC is still very much the dark webs favorite cryptocurrency, but those looking to cover their tracks are slowly learning to useprivacy-focused alternatives.<\/p>\n
While we have previously reported a small shift towards more privacy-focused cryptocurrencies such as Monero, Bitcoin still remains the currency of choice for both legitimate and criminal use, reports Europol with its latest assessment of internet-based organised crime.<\/p>\n
Europol notes that Bitcoins prevalence in the underground economy is a consequence of its familiarity within the customer base, particularly in dark web markets.<\/p>\n
In particular, ransomware campaigns have continued to feature Bitcoin almost exclusively. Europol highlighted these attacks as the most prominent cybercrime it tackles.<\/p>\n
Hard Fork has previously reported on numerous ransomware attacks thatve demanded Bitcoin to restore encrypted files.<\/p>\n
Still, authorities say there has been a more pronounced shift towards more privacy-orientated cryptocurrencies, and expects this trend to continue as criminals become more security aware.<\/p>\n
The main developments regarding this trend are on the Darknet [sic] markets, several of which also accept Monero, or in some cases exclusively trade in it, Europol added.<\/p>\n
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Published October 14, 2019 12:45 UTC <\/p>\n
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Europol: Bitcoin is the still the dark webs favorite cryptocurrency - The Next Web<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Bitcoin BTC is still very much the dark webs favorite cryptocurrency, but those looking to cover their tracks are slowly learning to useprivacy-focused alternatives. While we have previously reported a small shift towards more privacy-focused cryptocurrencies such as Monero, Bitcoin still remains the currency of choice for both legitimate and criminal use, reports Europol with its latest assessment of internet-based organised crime. Continue reading