Inside Feshop: How Stolen Credit Cards Are Sold Online

The sale of stolen credit card information on the dark web is a significant issue, and one of the platforms that have been associated with such illegal activities is Feshop, a notorious marketplace where stolen data and illegal goods are sold.

What Is Feshop?

Feshop is a dark web marketplace that has gained attention for facilitating the exchange of stolen data, including credit card details. This platform is often used by cybercriminals to buy and sell a variety of illegal goods, such as stolen credit card information, personal identification data, counterfeit documents, and hacking tools.

How Stolen Credit Cards Are Sold on Feshop

Listing Stolen Data: Sellers on Feshop typically list stolen credit card details in bulk. These listings may include information such as:

Card Number (PAN): The 16-digit number on the front of a credit card.

Expiration Date: The date when the card will expire.

CVV (Card Verification Value): The 3- or 4-digit security code on the back of the card.

Cardholder’s Name and Address: Additional details to make fraudulent transactions more likely to succeed.

Types of Listings:

Fullz: A term used for a complete package of data about an individual, including their full name, address, social security number, and bank account details, in addition to stolen credit card information.

CC Dumps: The raw data from the magnetic stripe of a credit card, often obtained by compromising point-of-sale systems or ATM machines.

Cramming Services: These services are used by fraudsters to charge a small amount to a victim’s card, which goes unnoticed, allowing for larger fraudulent purchases later.

Payment Methods: Sellers usually require payment in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Monero to maintain anonymity. These currencies are often favored by cybercriminals because they are difficult to trace compared to traditional payment methods.

Price Range: The price of stolen credit card information can vary widely. Full credit card details with a verified balance can fetch anywhere from $10 to $100 or more, depending on the quality and the amount of information available. The value increases if the cardholder's personal information is also provided.

Verification Process: Some sellers on Fe shop offer a “verification” process where buyers can test the validity of the stolen credit card information before making a larger purchase. This might involve making a small charge to an online service to confirm the card's functionality.

Buyer and Seller Anonymity: To maintain anonymity, both buyers and sellers often use encrypted messaging platforms (such as PGP or encrypted emails) and rely on dark web marketplaces like Feshop to act as intermediaries, although Feshop itself is not a trusted, secure platform for legal transactions.

Card Cloning and Fraud: Once the stolen card information is acquired, buyers can clone physical cards or use the details for online fraud. This could involve making purchases on e-commerce websites, transferring funds, or engaging in other illegal activities.

How Law Enforcement is Responding

Given the significant rise in cybercrime related to stolen credit card information, law enforcement agencies across the world are constantly monitoring dark web marketplaces like Feshop. They work with cybersecurity firms, financial institutions, and other entities to trace the activities of cybercriminals and shut down illegal marketplaces.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

Monitor Your Bank Statements: Regularly review your financial statements to spot any unauthorized transactions.

Enable Credit Monitoring: Services like credit alerts can notify you of any unusual activity on your accounts.

Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Securing your online accounts reduces the risk of being compromised by hackers.

Report Fraud Immediately: If you believe your card has been compromised, contact your bank and report the fraud to the relevant authorities.

Conclusion

The sale of stolen credit card information on platforms like Feshop is a growing concern for online security. While authorities work to crack down on illegal marketplaces, the best defense for consumers is to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their financial information.