Last updated: November 2025 | Reading time: 10 minutes
Phishing Prevention
Phishing is one of the biggest threats to Mars Market users. Scammers create fake sites that look identical to Mars Market to steal login credentials and funds.
⚠
Phishing is the #1 Threat: More users lose funds and accounts to phishing than any other type of scam. Always verify you're on the correct site before entering any information.
How to Avoid Phishing
Verify URLs character by character: Phishing sites use similar-looking addresses
Only use trusted mirror sources: Bookmark our mirrors page
Never click links in messages: Type addresses manually or use bookmarks
Enable 2FA: Even if credentials are stolen, 2FA protects your account
Check site functionality: Phishing sites often have broken features
Verify PGP signatures: Official announcements should be signed
Signs of a Phishing Site
Slightly different URL (characters swapped, extra letters)
Certificate warnings or missing HTTPS on clearnet pages
Unusual login errors or captcha behavior
Requests for information the real site wouldn't ask for
Visual differences from the legitimate site
Links in unsolicited messages or emails
Exit Scam Detection
Exit scams occur when a marketplace or vendor collects money and then disappears without delivering products or services. Recognizing warning signs early can protect your funds.
Marketplace Exit Scam Warning Signs
Sudden policy changes favoring the platform
Delays in withdrawals or "maintenance" periods
Staff departures or reduced support
Reduced activity from established vendors
Rumors from multiple independent sources
Requiring new deposits or fees unexpectedly
Disabled dispute system or altered escrow terms
Vendor Exit Scam Warning Signs
Sudden increase in listings or aggressive pricing
Requesting FE (Finalize Early) when they didn't before
Deposit only what you need for immediate purchases
Monitor darknet news and community discussions
Be especially cautious during "crisis" periods
Trust patterns of behavior over single data points
Vendor Verification
Choosing trustworthy vendors is critical for safe marketplace use. Take time to research before ordering.
What to Check
Feedback History: Read recent reviews, not just overall rating
Time on Platform: Established vendors are generally safer
Number of Sales: More completed orders indicate reliability
Verification Status: Check for platform verification badges
Response Time: Professional vendors respond promptly
Terms and Policies: Clear, reasonable terms indicate professionalism
Red Flags in Vendor Profiles
Very new account with no history
Prices significantly below market rate
Requiring FE (Finalize Early)
Vague product descriptions
No PGP key or terms listed
Recent cluster of negative reviews
Claims that sound too good to be true
Common Scam Types
FE (Finalize Early) Scams
Scammers convince buyers to finalize before receiving products, then never ship. Remember: legitimate vendors don't require FE, and once you finalize, buyer protection is gone.
Selective Scamming
Vendors deliver to most customers but scam occasional buyers, maintaining positive feedback while stealing from some. Large orders or new buyers are common targets.
Impersonation Scams
Scammers create accounts with names similar to legitimate vendors (different characters, added numbers). Always verify exact vendor name and profile.
Private Transaction Scams
Scammers convince you to transact outside the marketplace to "save fees." Without escrow protection, you have no recourse if they don't deliver.
Harm Reduction Practices
Harm reduction focuses on minimizing negative consequences. These practices can help reduce risks when using darknet marketplaces.
General Harm Reduction
Start small—make small test orders before larger purchases
Research thoroughly—knowledge reduces risk
Use escrow—never pay outside the system
Stay anonymous—protect your identity at every step
Keep records—document transactions for disputes
Trust but verify—don't rely solely on ratings
Community Resources
Various online communities discuss marketplace safety and vendor experiences. While information should be verified from multiple sources, community knowledge can provide valuable insights. Be cautious of shills and astroturfing.
Summary: Warning Signs Checklist
⚠
Proceed with extreme caution if you observe:
Requests to finalize early
Offers to transact outside the marketplace
Prices that seem too good to be true
Pressure to act quickly
New accounts or unverified vendors
Recent negative reviews mentioning non-delivery
Withdrawal delays or unusual fees
Links from untrusted sources
Requests for unusual information
Vendors who won't communicate through proper channels
Safety Frequently Asked Questions
If you believe you've been scammed: 1) Don't finalize if you haven't already, 2) Open a dispute immediately with detailed evidence, 3) Contact marketplace support, 4) Document everything, 5) Leave honest feedback to warn others. Unfortunately, if you've finalized or transacted outside escrow, recovery options are very limited.
Generally, no. FE removes all buyer protection. Some buyers choose to FE with highly established vendors they've used many times successfully, but even these vendors can exit scam. The safest practice is to never FE regardless of vendor reputation or promises of discounts.
Verify mirrors through multiple independent sources. Check our mirrors page, community forums, and official signed announcements. Compare the address character by character. When in doubt, don't enter credentials—seek verification first. Consider keeping known-good bookmarks.
This is a major red flag. Legitimate vendors keep all communication on-platform where it's documented and escrow protection applies. Off-platform communication removes accountability and protections. Decline and consider reporting the vendor.