Darknet Marketplaces and the Need for Harm Reduction Policy in Virtual Settings

• In Event: Roundtable: Challenges and Opportunities in Harm Reduction

Abstract

Darknet marketplaces (DNMs) are global digital marketplaces used primarily to buy and sell illicit drugs online. Drug-related overdoses in the last decade have pushed DMN administrators to address mislabeled drug products on their platforms. This harm reduction strategy of tracking and flagging mislabeled products is a novel approach to drug monitoring on anonymous illicit marketplaces. Yet, some research has shown that harm reduction protocols have long been present amongst buyers highlighting that even online, people who use drugs (PWUD) are the most knowledgeable resources when it comes to reducing harm caused by illicit drug use. This paper explores the impact of an administrator-led harm reduction policy and the types of harm reduction strategies being used by DNM buyers. We found that administrative harm reduction initiatives altered the relationship between vendors and the site administrators but had a minimal effect on the preexisting harm reduction communication already occurring amongst buyers. We argue that efficient harm reduction strategies should provide more outlets and resources for PWUD on DMNs to purchase overdose prevention resources, discuss their personal experiences buying and using substances from vendors, and offer safety advice to future DNM buyers.

Authors

• Kenji Logie, John Jay College of Criminal Justice / CUNY Graduate Center

• Katheryne Pugliese, John Jay College of Criminal Justice/CUNY and Montclair State University

• Alexis Acevedo, John Jay College of Criminal Justice