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Why monero dominates dark net payments over zcash

Monero Keeps Dominating | Illicit Payment Patterns on the Dark Net

By

Laura Shin

Jun 17, 2026, 11:22 AM

Edited By

David Lee

Updated

Jun 17, 2026, 11:29 AM

2 minutes of duration

A graphic showing Monero and Zcash logos set against a dark web themed backdrop, highlighting their use in online transactions.

As Monero cements its status as the preferred cryptocurrency for underground transactions, some are questioning why it outshines Zcash, despite claims surrounding Zcash's privacy features. Analysis from various user boards reveals fresh insights into this ongoing debate.

The Debate Rages On

Recent conversations on forums indicate a growing concern regarding the actual privacy of cryptocurrencies. A notable sentiment emerged, with one poster mentioning, "Like ANOM, it’s about what the developers do behind the scenes." This, alongside a reminder about potential tracking tools developed by Monero creators, raises eyebrows about whether users might inadvertently be compromising their anonymity when using the coin. This perspective challenges the commonly held view that Monero is foolproof.

Insights From the Underground

Discussion threads unveiled more thoughts:

  • Widespread Adoption: A commenter shared, "I know hella shops & sites & literally none of them utilize Zcash", highlighting that adoption remains a critical issue for Zcash.

  • Practical Concerns: Many users voiced skepticism about Zcash’s overall usability, questioning whether it can compete with Monero's established foothold in illicit markets.

  • Criminals' Trust: Another sentiment echoed the idea that "For criminals, financial privacy is everything; if compromised, it could mean the end of freedom."

User Experiences in the Shadows

In further discussions, participants noted that the stakes in these transactions are high. "When analyzing popular markets for illegal goods and services, Monero is by far the more popular method of payment," reiterated one user, reinforcing the belief that Monero’s characteristics provide a level of assurance absent from other currencies.

Key Finales

  • ◼️ Monero remains the dominant choice in dark net transactions, despite the privacy claims made by Zcash.

  • β–³ Users emphasize real-world concerns about Zcash’s adoption and practicality.

  • β–½ The notion that "if a criminal’s financial privacy is compromised, it could mean life or death" resonates deeply within the community.

As dark net activity evolves, the reliance on Monero is likely to continue climbing, with projections suggesting that approximately 70% of illicit transactions could lean towards Monero due to its heightened privacy features. The conversation surrounding privacy coins remains critical, especially in light of increasing regulations and scrutiny on cryptocurrencies, posing significant implications for future mainstream adoption.

A Call for Caution

While Monero’s dominance is clear, the ongoing discussions raise essential questions about the integrity of privacy in cryptocurrencies. Readers and investors alike should stay informed and vigilant as the landscape of digital currency continues to shift.