Blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis has released its 2026 Crypto Crime Report, revealing the persistent resilience of darknet markets (DNMs) while highlighting a transformative shift in how cryptocurrency data is being used for public health and law enforcement. The report details that DNMs processed nearly $2.6 billion in cryptocurrency transactions in 2025, marking a steady rise from a low of around $2 billion in 2022.
The report underscores a dual narrative: while crypto-facilitated illicit drug markets remain durable, the transparency of blockchain technology is increasingly being leveraged as a predictive intelligence tool. A key finding is the sharp decline in on-chain payments to fentanyl precursor suppliers, which began in mid-2023. This decline preceded a meaningful drop in opioid overdose deaths in the United States and Canada by 3–6 months, demonstrating blockchain data's potential as an early-warning system.
Chainalysis also identified a correlation between larger crypto transactions (above $500) sent to darknet markets and increased stimulant-related hospitalizations in Canada, suggesting bulk purchases could serve as a risk indicator for public health agencies.
Despite enforcement actions, including the July 2025 closure of Abacus Market, the ecosystem has proven adaptable. Vendor migration to successor platforms like TorZon and the growth of Russia-focused markets such as Kraken, Mega, and Blacksprut show rapid adaptation. The report notes that a hack on the Blacksprut market triggered temporary negative net flows, visible on-chain.
"Money moves before the crisis hits," Chainalysis emphasized, pointing to the opportunity for authorities to use real-time on-chain analysis to track supply chain shifts, measure enforcement effectiveness, and predict overdose surges proactively.
