Vendor Verification
Ensuring trust and reliability in every transaction
Why Vendor Verification Matters
Abacus Market’s vendor verification process is the cornerstone of our trusted marketplace. With over 1,200 verified vendors as of May 2025, we ensure that only reliable sellers operate on our platform, protecting users from scams and substandard products.
Our rigorous process evaluates vendors based on reputation, product quality, and adherence to marketplace rules, fostering a secure trading environment.
How Vendors Are Verified
Our multi-step verification process includes:
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Application Submission
Vendors submit an application via our onion portal, including a PGP key, product details, and prior darknet experience.
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Background Check
We cross-reference vendor data with darknet forums and past marketplace records to verify authenticity.
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Sample Testing
Vendors must provide product samples for quality assurance, reviewed by our moderation team.
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Bond Payment
A refundable bond (paid in BTC, XMR, or ETH) ensures commitment. Bonds range from $100–$500 based on vendor tier.
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Probation Period
New vendors undergo a 30-day probation, with limited listings and mandatory escrow. Performance is monitored for reliability.
Vendor Tiers and Benefits
| Tier | Requirements | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $100 bond, 30-day probation | Up to 50 listings, standard escrow |
| Trusted | $300 bond, 100+ sales, 90%+ rating | Unlimited listings, Finalize Early option |
| Elite | $500 bond, 500+ sales, 95%+ rating | Priority support, featured listings |
How to Choose a Vendor
When shopping, evaluate vendors using these criteria:
- Rating and Reviews: Check feedback from past buyers. Trusted vendors have 90%+ ratings.
- Transaction History: Vendors with 100+ sales are generally reliable.
- PGP Key: Verify the vendor’s PGP key for secure communication.
- Response Time: Elite vendors typically respond within 12 hours.
- Escrow Usage: Avoid vendors requesting early finalization unless they’re Trusted or Elite.
Reporting Suspicious Vendors
If a vendor violates our rules (e.g., scams, poor quality), report them via Contact & Support. Provide transaction IDs, screenshots, and PGP-signed messages. Our moderators investigate within 24 hours.
We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for fraud, ensuring banned vendors cannot re-register.