Generally speaking, if you can't trust someone directly then the next best thing is consensus among others. Ideally, a connection only occurs in real life becau

Generally speaking, if you can't trust someone directly then the next best thing is consensus among others. Ideally, a connection only occurs in real life because one or more mutual acquaintances have decided they trust both parties involved. Relying on the word of others, on a network of trust, is paramount. Remember, these distributors also have their own set of problems when it comes to trusting others. Most open marketplaces on the internet, not just darknet markets, provide reputation systems for this purpose. Even Amazon has a review and rating system in place, which was integral towards building initial trust with its buyers and sellers.