Abacus Market Shutters After Exit Scam, Say Experts

Abacus Market, a leading Western dark web marketplace, likely conducted an exit scam after users reported withdrawal issues in late June, despite the admin attributing problems to DDoS and user influx. Analysis from TRM Labs suggests the recent takedown of rival Archetyp and heightened law enforcement attention influenced the decision to shut down and abscond with funds, following four years of profitable operations. Chainalysis notes Abacus’s 2024 revenue surged 183%, with offerings spanning drugs, precursor chemicals, cybercrime tools, fraud services, counterfeit goods, and IaaS accounts. The report also highlights a shift in law enforcement strategy toward targeting vendors across marketplaces for broader disruption.