Abacus Market, a dominant Bitcoin-based darknet platform, has suddenly gone offline without warning, triggering widespread suspicions of an exit scam by its operators.
The marketplace had captured approximately 70% of Western darknet transactions in 2024 following law enforcement shutdowns of competitors Archetyp Market and ASAP Market. This rapid consolidation ironically increased its visibility and risk exposure, potentially contributing to its abrupt disappearance.
Prior to the shutdown, users reported persistent withdrawal difficulties. Marketplace administrators attributed these issues to a DDoS attack and sudden influx of new users, but the complete cessation of operations strongly indicates an orchestrated exit scam.
Blockchain analytics firm TRM Labs speculates that operators may have prioritized self-preservation over continued profits, potentially absconding with substantial user funds. No official seizure notices have been issued, leaving uncertainty about potential law enforcement involvement in the shutdown.