Protocol Access Guide
Comprehensive operating procedures for the Dark Matter network.
The Environment
Security begins before you connect. Never access the Dark Matter network via a standard browser. You must utilize the Tor Browser, which routes traffic through multiple nodes to obscure your IP address.
- Download Tor Browser only from torproject.org.
- For maximum security, adjust Security Level to "Safer" or "Safest".
- Do not resize the browser window (prevents fingerprinting).
Access & Verification
Phishing is the primary threat in the darknet ecosystem. Always verify you are on a legitimate mirror. Dark Matter utilizes rotational mirrors signed by the administration PGP key.
kb3qxip7bvh6rgfre7h7gcxth2bf7ezo5tubp3a5cdef2pboc3bpdtad.onion
* Bookmark this URL immediately after verification. Never click links from wiki sites or forums without verifying the PGP signature.
Account Security
The registration process on Dark Matter is designed for anonymity. No email is required. However, this shifts the responsibility of account recovery entirely to the user.
The Mnemonic
Upon registration, you are issued a 12-word mnemonic phrase. Write this down offline. It is the ONLY way to recover your account if you lose your password. Admins cannot reset passwords.
2-Factor Authentication
Enable PGP 2FA immediately. This requires you to decrypt a message using your private key every time you login, rendering stolen passwords useless.
PGP Encryption
Encryption is not optional. All sensitive communications, including shipping addresses for physical goods, must be encrypted using the recipient's public key.
- Install Gpg4win (Windows) or GPGTools (Mac).
- Import the Dark Matter Market public key found on the Security Page.
- Encrypt your address block before pasting it into any order form.
- Ideally, sign your messages to prove authenticity.
Funding (Educational)
Dark Matter operates exclusively on Monero (XMR) due to its privacy features (Ring Signatures, Stealth Addresses). Bitcoin is not accepted due to transparent ledger tracking.
Wallet Isolation
Generate a new sub-address for every deposit. Never reuse addresses.
Confirmation Time
XMR requires 10 confirmations on the blockchain before funds appear in your market balance (~20 minutes).
Order Process Mechanics
For educational purposes, understanding the escrow system is vital. Funds are held by the market protocol until the order is finalized.
Warning: Finalize Early (FE)
Some listings request "Finalize Early" (releasing funds before delivery). This bypasses escrow protection. This is high risk and should only be done with extremely trusted entities. The safest method is always standard Escrow.
Ready to Verify?
Ensure you have thoroughly read the security documentation before proceeding.