Abacus Market’s Sudden Offline Status Raises Possibilities of Exit Scam Amid Bitcoin Darknet Dominance

Key Points

1. Abacus Market captured approximately 70% of the Western darknet market share in 2024 after competitors like Archetyp Market and ASAP Market were shut down.

2. The platform's rapid growth increased its visibility, potentially elevating its risk profile and contributing to its sudden disappearance.

3. Users reported withdrawal difficulties, with the administrator attributing the issues to a DDoS attack and a sudden influx of new users, but the abrupt shutdown suggests an exit scam.

4. TRM Labs speculates that the operators may have prioritized self-preservation over continued profit, possibly absconding with substantial funds.

5. No official seizure notices have been issued, leaving uncertainty over whether law enforcement was involved in the shutdown.