Mapping Collaborative Networks: The Role of Social Network Analysis in Darkweb Policing

• In Event: Cybercrime, Social Networks & Policing

Abstract

The darkweb is often perceived as a challenging environment for law enforcement intervention due to its anonymity and decentralized structure. However, law enforcement agencies have developed increasingly sophisticated strategies to counteract cybercrime in these hidden online spaces. This paper explores how social network analysis (SNA) can be used to understand the structure and effectiveness of collaborative networks in darkweb enforcement operations. Using a dataset of 121 darkweb police operations, which involved 259 public and private organizations and led to 3,302 arrests globally, we apply SNA techniques to assess the roles of key actors within these networks. Our study focuses on centrality measures (degree, closeness, and betweenness) to map core-periphery structures, identifying influential organizations and potential gaps in collaboration. Preliminary findings reveal that a small group of agencies and countries dominate darkweb enforcement, with Europol, the FBI, the Dutch National Police, and the German Federal Criminal Police Office emerging as central players. Surprisingly, private-sector involvement appears less prominent in darkweb enforcement compared to other areas of cybercrime control, suggesting unique challenges in establishing effective partnerships between law enforcement and the private sector. By providing empirical insights into networked policing strategies, this research enhances our understanding of how collaborative enforcement efforts shape darkweb disruptions and highlights potential avenues for strengthening international cooperation.

Authors

• Marie-Pier Villeneuve-Dubuc, University of Montreal

• Benoît Dupont, University of Montreal