WeTheNorth Market: Complete Guide to Canada's Leading Darknet Marketplace
Complete educational resource covering WeTheNorth Market security features, PGP encryption, Monero payments, escrow system, and safe trading practices. Established 2021, serving the Canadian darknet community with 9,000+ active listings.
What is WeTheNorth Market?
WeTheNorth Market (often abbreviated as WTN Market) is a Canadian-focused darknet marketplace that emerged in July 2021 as a direct replacement for the defunct CanadianHeadquarters marketplace. Named after the iconic Toronto Raptors slogan "We The North," the platform has established itself as the premier destination for Canada-to-Canada darknet transactions, though it also supports international trade.
As of January 2025, WeTheNorth Market hosts over 9,000 active listings and maintains a community of 260+ verified vendors. Unlike massive global marketplaces that prioritize scale over safety, WeTheNorth has adopted a "tortoise strategy" â focusing on steady, sustainable growth through strict moderation, community engagement, and solid security measures.
Why WeTheNorth Stands Out: Canadian Regional Specialization
WeTheNorth Market's unique value proposition lies in its regional specialization. For Canadian buyers, this means:
- Fast Domestic Shipping: 2-3 day delivery times for Canada-to-Canada orders, compared to 2-3 weeks for international shipping
- Lower Customs Risk: Domestic packages avoid international customs screening, significantly reducing interception risks
- Bilingual Support: Full English and French language support (unique among darknet markets), with 24/7 customer service in both languages
- CAD Currency Display: Account balances and product prices displayed in Canadian dollars alongside BTC/XMR, providing psychological comfort for Canadian users
- Local Market Knowledge: Vendors understand Canadian laws, shipping logistics, and regional preferences
The "Community-First" Philosophy
Unlike profit-maximizing mega-markets, WeTheNorth explicitly positions itself as a community-first marketplace. This philosophy manifests in several ways:
- Active Moderation: Administrators actively monitor and remove scammers, fake vendors, and low-quality listings
- No Finalize Early (FE): WeTheNorth prohibits vendors from requesting Finalize Early, protecting buyers from exit scams
- Verified Reviews Only: Product reviews come exclusively from confirmed purchases, preventing fake feedback manipulation
- Built-in Forum: Community discussion forum integrated into the marketplace (no need for external platforms like Dread)
- Harm Reduction Emphasis: Platform hints at harm reduction principles in drug trade discussions
Security
Tor Access
Monero
Bitcoin
PGP
Escrow
2FA
Canada
Privacy
Verified
Key Features & Security Measures
WeTheNorth Market implements industry-leading security protocols to protect both buyers and vendors
Canada-Focused Marketplace
Built by Canadians for Canadians. Fast domestic 2-3 day shipping, bilingual support (English/French), and CAD currency display. Regional focus means lower customs risks.
Mandatory Security Features
Enforced PGP encryption for all vendors, mandatory 2FA authentication, 6-digit PIN for withdrawals, and mnemonic recovery codes. Your security is non-negotiable.
Monero & Bitcoin Payments
Accepts both XMR (recommended for privacy) and BTC. Advanced escrow system protects all transactions. Lower fees compared to global competitors.
Community-First Approach
Active moderation, strict vendor verification, no Finalize Early (FE) allowed. "Tortoise strategy" - steady growth over hype. Fewer scams than larger markets.
Transparent Vendor Ratings
Ratings based on completed orders, verified feedback only. Built-in forum for community discussions. Reputation system prevents fake reviews.
Multiple Access Points
Primary .onion address with verified mirrors. PGP-signed links for verification. Anti-phishing measures including mnemonic codes and custom images.
Technical Profile: Security & Payment Systems
Escrow System: Traditional Centralized Protection
WeTheNorth Market uses a traditional centralized escrow system rather than multisignature (multisig) escrow. This means that marketplace administrators hold funds in escrow until both buyer and vendor confirm transaction completion.
Cryptocurrency Support: Monero Recommended
WeTheNorth Market accepts two cryptocurrencies:
-
Monero (XMR) - Highly Recommended
Superior privacy through ring signatures, stealth addresses, and RingCT technology. Lower transaction fees and faster confirmations than Bitcoin. Monero's blockchain is opaque, making transaction tracing virtually impossible.
-
Bitcoin (BTC) - Supported
Accepted but less private. Bitcoin transactions are permanently recorded on a public blockchain, requiring additional privacy measures (coin mixing, Wasabi Wallet, etc.).
Mandatory Security Features
đ PGP Encryption (Mandatory for Vendors)
All vendors must use PGP encryption for communications. Buyers are strongly encouraged to generate PGP keys for secure messaging and address sharing.
đ Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Vendors: Mandatory 2FA (PGP-based or TOTP). Buyers: Highly recommended. PGP-based 2FA displays an encrypted message during login that only you can decrypt.
đĸ 6-Digit Withdrawal PIN
Even if someone compromises your account password, they cannot withdraw funds without your 6-digit PIN. Set this immediately upon registration.
đ Mnemonic Recovery Code
During registration, WeTheNorth provides a mnemonic code for account recovery. Store this securely offline - it's your only recovery method if you lose access.
đŧī¸ Anti-Phishing Image
Upload a custom image during setup that displays on every login. If you don't see your image, you're on a phishing site.
Essential Security Guides
Start with these essential guides to ensure safe marketplace usage
Security Fundamentals
Essential security practices for darknet marketplace usage
PGP Encryption Setup
Step-by-step guide to PGP key generation and message encryption
Monero Payment Guide
How to buy, store, and use Monero for maximum privacy
Registration Guide
Complete walkthrough of WeTheNorth account creation
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about WeTheNorth Market answered with verified information
What is WeTheNorth Market?
+WeTheNorth Market (WTN) is a Canadian-focused darknet marketplace established in July 2021 as a replacement for the defunct CanadianHeadquarters. Named after the Toronto Raptors slogan "We The North," it specializes in Canada-to-Canada transactions while also supporting international trade. As of 2025, it hosts over 9,000 active listings across various categories.
Is WeTheNorth Market safe to use?
+WeTheNorth implements robust security measures including mandatory PGP encryption for vendors, 2FA authentication, escrow protection, and strict moderation. However, no darknet market is 100% safe. Users must follow security best practices: use Tor Browser, verify PGP signatures, never store large amounts in market balance, and understand the legal risks involved.
What cryptocurrencies does WeTheNorth accept?
+WeTheNorth Market accepts both Bitcoin (BTC) and Monero (XMR). Monero is highly recommended due to its built-in privacy features (ring signatures, stealth addresses, RingCT). XMR offers lower transaction fees and faster confirmations compared to Bitcoin while maintaining superior anonymity.
Does WeTheNorth use Multisig escrow?
+No. WeTheNorth uses traditional centralized escrow, not multisig. This means funds are held by the marketplace administration until transaction completion. While this system has functioned reliably since 2021, it does require trusting the platform. Users should never store more funds than they can afford to lose.
Can I use WeTheNorth if I'm not in Canada?
+Yes, WeTheNorth is not exclusively Canadian. While it specializes in Canada-to-Canada domestic shipping (which offers faster delivery and lower customs risks), international transactions are possible. However, the product selection for international buyers may be more limited compared to global marketplaces.
How do I verify official WeTheNorth mirrors?
+Always verify mirror links using the official PGP public key. Look for PGP-signed messages on trusted forums like Dread. Never trust clearnet websites claiming to have "official links" - only access through Tor Browser using verified .onion addresses. Use the anti-phishing features (mnemonic code, custom image) to confirm authenticity.
What is the vendor bond for WeTheNorth?
+The exact vendor bond amount is not publicly disclosed, but industry standards suggest $100-500 in BTC/XMR. Vendors must also enable mandatory 2FA, use PGP encryption, and comply with strict marketplace rules. Finalize Early (FE) is prohibited to protect buyers from scams.
Why does WeTheNorth have clearnet mirrors?
+This is a controversial practice. Clearnet mirrors compromise user anonymity by potentially logging IP addresses. It is strongly recommended to ONLY access WeTheNorth through Tor Browser using verified .onion addresses. Never use clearnet mirrors for actual marketplace access.
WeTheNorth vs Global Darknet Marketplaces
| Feature | WeTheNorth | Global Markets (Abacus, TorZon) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Selection | â ī¸ Medium (9K listings) | â Very Large (50K+ listings) |
| Security/Moderation | â Excellent (strict vetting) | â ī¸ Varies (more scammers) |
| Domestic CA Shipping | â Fast (2-3 days) | â ī¸ Depends on vendor |
| Fees | â Below average | â ī¸ Standard/High |
| Community Feel | â Strong | â Anonymous mass |
| Exit Scam Risk | â ī¸ Medium (no multisig) | â ī¸ High (history of closures) |
| Law Enforcement Attention | â Low (regional market) | â High (big targets) |
Key Takeaway: WeTheNorth is ideal for Canadian buyers seeking reliability, fast shipping, and community trust over massive product variety. For exotic international products, larger global markets may be necessary.
â ī¸ Important Warnings & Red Flags
No Multisig Escrow
WeTheNorth uses centralized escrow. Your funds are controlled by market administrators. In case of an exit scam, you could lose all funds in your balance. Solution: Never keep large amounts in your market wallet. Deposit only what you need for immediate purchases.
Clearnet Mirrors Exist
WeTheNorth has clearnet (regular web) mirrors, which is unusual and risky for a darknet market. Accessing through clearnet compromises your anonymity. Solution: ONLY access WeTheNorth through Tor Browser using verified .onion addresses. Never use clearnet mirrors.
Relatively Young Market (2021)
At 4 years old, WeTheNorth hasn't faced the "test of time" like AlphaBay (pre-shutdown). Any market can exit scam without warning. Solution: Stay informed through Dread forum discussions. Watch for warning signs (withdrawal delays, admin inactivity).
Conflicting Launch Date Claims
Some promotional sites claim WeTheNorth launched in 2018, but cybersecurity researchers (SOCRadar, Recorded Future) confirm July 2021. Takeaway: Be skeptical of marketing claims. Verify information through independent sources.
Getting Started with WeTheNorth Market
New to WeTheNorth? Here's a step-by-step roadmap to get started safely. Don't skip steps. Each one builds on the previous.
Step 1: Set Up Your Security Foundation
Before even accessing WeTheNorth, you need proper security infrastructure. This isn't optional. This is the foundation that protects you.
- Download Tor Browser: Get it from torproject.org only. Verify the download signature.
- Set Up VPN: Connect to a no-logs VPN before launching Tor for additional protection.
- Generate PGP Keys: Create a 4096-bit RSA key pair using GnuPG or Kleopatra.
- Create Strong Passwords: Use a password manager. Generate unique, random passwords.
Step 2: Verify Official Links
Phishing is the biggest threat on darknet markets. Fake WeTheNorth sites steal credentials daily. Before your first login, you must verify you have the correct .onion address.
- Find official mirror announcements on Dread (/d/WeTheNorth)
- Verify PGP signatures on announcements
- Bookmark verified addresses immediately
- Never search for links or trust random directories
Step 3: Create Your Account
With security in place and verified links bookmarked, you're ready to register. During registration, WeTheNorth provides several security features. Enable all of them.
- Choose a unique username not used anywhere else
- Save your mnemonic recovery phrase offline
- Set up 2FA immediately (PGP-based recommended)
- Upload an anti-phishing image you'll recognize
- Create a 6-digit withdrawal PIN
Step 4: Fund Your Account
WeTheNorth accepts Monero and Bitcoin. We strongly recommend Monero for privacy. Bitcoin transactions are publicly traceable. Monero transactions are not.
- Acquire Monero anonymously (not from KYC exchanges)
- Use personal wallet, not exchange wallet
- Deposit only what you need for immediate purchases
- Never store large amounts in marketplace balance
Step 5: Make Your First Purchase
With funds deposited, you're ready to browse. Take your time. Research vendors carefully before ordering.
- Check vendor ratings (target 95%+ positive)
- Read recent reviews (not just overall score)
- Start with established vendors (100+ sales)
- Make small test orders before large purchases
- Never Finalize Early with unverified vendors
- Use PGP to encrypt your shipping address
WeTheNorth Market Categories
WeTheNorth hosts a variety of product categories. The market enforces strict rules about what can and cannot be sold.
Prohibited Items
WeTheNorth explicitly bans certain categories:
- CSAM: Zero tolerance, permanent ban, reported to authorities
- Weapons: Firearms, explosives, and weapons of mass destruction
- Fentanyl: Market has explicit anti-fentanyl policies
- Poisons: Items intended to harm people
- Services: Hit services, hacking services targeting individuals
This moderation philosophy reflects WeTheNorth's harm reduction approach. Markets that allow everything attract more law enforcement attention and create more community harm.
Product Diversity
With 9,000+ listings and 260+ vendors, WeTheNorth offers significant variety within allowed categories. Canadian domestic vendors dominate, offering faster shipping and lower risk than international alternatives.
đ° Privacy & Security News
Latest updates from Electronic Frontier Foundation
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đ Essential External Resources
Verified tools and information sources for darknet security
đ Security Tools
- Tor Project - Official Tor Browser download
- Tails OS - Amnesic live operating system
- Whonix - Anonymous operating system
- GnuPG - Free PGP encryption software
- KeePassXC - Open-source password manager
đ° Cryptocurrency Resources
- Monero Official - XMR wallet and info
- Feather Wallet - Desktop Monero wallet
- Cake Wallet - Mobile Monero wallet
- LocalMonero - P2P Monero exchange
- CoinGecko - Crypto price tracking
đ Education & Research
- EFF - Electronic Frontier Foundation
- Privacy Guides - Privacy tool recommendations
- EFF SSD - Surveillance Self-Defense
- r/onions - Reddit Tor community
- r/Monero - Monero community
Ready to Learn More?
Explore our complete Wiki covering every aspect of WeTheNorth Market - from basic security to advanced trading strategies.