When it comes to cryptocurrencies which provide fungibility, privacy, and anonymity, there are very few options at one’s disposal today. Monero is by far the market leader in this regard. In fact, a new darknet marketplace known as Libertas will accept payment by Monero only. It’s a major development in the DNM scene, where the use of Bitcoin is dwindling.
Libertas Makes a Brave Decision
In the world of darknet marketplaces, a lot has changed over the past few months. With all the main marketplaces getting shut down, being infiltrated, or simply disappearing, a power vacuum is waiting to be filled. Several new darknet marketplaces are emerging as we speak, and they all seem to have one major aspect in common: instead of relying on Bitcoin, they are all flocking to Monero.
This sudden change should not come as a big surprise to anyone. Unlike Monero, Bitcoin has no privacy or anonymity traits whatsoever. While the latter may be more valuable than XMR right now, it also comes at a price most darknet operators and users may not be willing to pay. One of the main purposes of the darknet is to mask one’s identity at all times, which is pretty much impossible when relying on Bitcoin for purchases.
Libertas is a brand-new darknet marketplace which will forgo any use of Bitcoin whatsoever. It will enable only Monero-based transactions from day one, which is a brave yet deliberate choice. It is good to see more darknet marketplaces focus on Monero over any “pretending” privacy and anonymity coins in this regard. No one can deny there are clear differences between the currencies which aim to achieve similar results in this regard.
Libertas aims to position itself as the top darknet marketplace by focusing on Monero and introducing a modern design. Moreover, it only allows high-ranking and trusted vendors on the platform. Although the darknet is very popular among buyers and sellers of less-than-legal goods and services, there is always a risk of being ripped off. Libertas aims to ensure that cannot happen, although there is never a foolproof solution in this regard.
As one would expect from a new darknet marketplace, the plan is to provide escrow and pay-first options. There is also a terms and conditions acceptance requirement, which is rather interesting. Items can be priced in many different fiat currencies yet only be purchased with Monero. Plus, the team guarantees its server is set up in such a way as to guarantee anonymity. Last but not least, there is a 3% market fee for all trades.
In the end, it is good to see more darknet marketplaces focus on the cryptocurrencies which matter to them. Although Bitcoin has held the crown for very long, it is evident BTC is no match for Monero in this industry. It is not unlikely we will see more and more darknet marketplaces ditch Bitcoin in favor of Monero due to privacy and anonymity concerns. A bright future lies ahead for XMR in this department; that much is evident.
