Silk Road forums

Discussion => Security => Topic started by: NortonTheFirst on January 11, 2013, 07:15 am

Title: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: NortonTheFirst on January 11, 2013, 07:15 am
I've been dealing molly in small amounts for a few months now, just to friends and friends-of-friends. I know I'm not big enough to attract much attention yet, but if a client fucks up and gets busted, the cops are bound to find our texts on their phone, and suddenly I'm easy pickings. So, I've been having people contact me via a prepaid number that I pay for in cash. This seems pretty safe, but only as long as everyone's smart enough to not mention my name when texting me... Or in other words, probably not very fucking long. Today someone did just that, and now I'm trying to decide how to fix it.

The obvious solution is to just burn the phone and get a new one, but that seems like a total pain in the ass, and only semi-effective:
1: I'd have to arrange in-person meetings with all my clients to give them my new number. (Mass texting it via the old number would completely defeat the purpose.)
2: A new phone is cheap, but not so cheap that the prospect of buying one every single time someone fucks up and says my name doesn't sting a bit. Like I said, I'm pretty small-time at this point, mostly just making enough to cover my rent and stuff.
3: Even if I do both of those things, I also have to make sure people don't save the number under my real name in their address books, which is even harder to enforce.

I'm wondering if the more experienced folks here know of a solution that hasn't occurred to me. Maybe I just need to start using an alias, but since most of these people are already friends/acquaintances there's still bound to be slip-ups... I realize this is an inherently risky, inefficient business and there might not be much more I can do, but I figure it's worth asking around. I want to make this as safe as possible both for myself and for my clients. Any advice will be much appreciated!
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Wadozo on January 11, 2013, 07:33 am
Mobile phones are a drug dealers worst nightmare IMO. Yes, they are convenient, however, they can be used to record any transactions and pinpoint your location should you fall under the watchful eye of the law. Here are a couple of threads discussing accessing SR via a mobile device, however, there is an interview with a known hacking expert on how a mobile device can be used by LE should you come across their path. This is perhaps an extreme view, however, since you are selling the potential for you to be put under surveillance at some stage could very well happen.  :)

http://dkn255hz262ypmii.onion/index.php?topic=95973.msg694044#msg694044

http://dkn255hz262ypmii.onion/index.php?topic=98323.msg693911#msg693911
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: NortonTheFirst on January 11, 2013, 07:53 am
I've been thinking it would be a good idea to somehow physically disable my "business" phone's microphone, maybe by covering it in superglue, or just snipping it off the circuit board. (I only do business via text.) It'd be great to physically disable the GPS too, although that would probably be a bit trickier, and I'm not sure how I would verify that it was successful on a dumbphone. But GPS tracking and remote eavesdropping require a lot more time and effort on the cops' part than simply reading my name out of a text message, and thus the latter is a more pressing concern to me. It would be great if I could avoid doing business over the phone completely, but that just doesn't seem realistic these days at the "street level."
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: psychedelicmind on January 11, 2013, 08:07 am
I know it wouldn't be the most convenient scenario, but would it be feasible to deal using a tormail email address? Give your clients the email address and tell them to contact you that way. Only thing with that is that you'd have to make very definite plans to meet people (and make sure they are punctual so you're not left hanging around) as they couldn't contact you while you were out and about. Maybe that wouldn't work, but it is something I have considered myself.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: samspade72 on January 11, 2013, 08:36 am
I like your set up and your points.
1. Stop using your real name for dealing. Go under an alias. Not something like smokey, but something belieable, if yoru a white guy. JOHn. mexican, Jose, And so on. My buddy deals with SWIM, and i deal with SWAM.

2. Dont even think about using an iPhone or any other smart phone.

3.Ensure your phone has a lock code that activates instantly. If you back up, make sure thats encrypted. Cops tend to go through phones after they handcuff you. Say you forgot the code. And forget it.

4. dont send pictures, revealing texts, or names. or drug names.

5. Im not sure how effective using "t-shirts" is. Its OLD school. but it makes me feel better. and frankly, isnt that what were here for?!

6. To be honest with you. Unless your right below a top level dealer or just being crass with your dealing. Nobody is surveying you. Depends on your location and jurisdiction. My city has 8 million people per square mile. (ive said too much!) so its easier to fall through the cracks. Sleepy texas cops, whole different story. Arent burner phones like 35 bucks? if you cant burn a phone a month. Your doing it wrong. Think of it as stay out of jail fee. Beats the alternative. But unless your up there.. or beign sloppy with your money or flashing or bragging. That'll take you down faster than any cellphone trace or GPS leak.

IMHO

7. Listen to "Ten crack commandments" by biggie. it'll put you on the way to be being a hustler/dealer.


Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Errl_Kushman on January 11, 2013, 05:06 pm
I've been dealing molly in small amounts for a few months now, just to friends and friends-of-friends. I know I'm not big enough to attract much attention yet, but if a client fucks up and gets busted, the cops are bound to find our texts on their phone, and suddenly I'm easy pickings. So, I've been having people contact me via a prepaid number that I pay for in cash. This seems pretty safe, but only as long as everyone's smart enough to not mention my name when texting me... Or in other words, probably not very fucking long. Today someone did just that, and now I'm trying to decide how to fix it.

The obvious solution is to just burn the phone and get a new one, but that seems like a total pain in the ass, and only semi-effective:
1: I'd have to arrange in-person meetings with all my clients to give them my new number. (Mass texting it via the old number would completely defeat the purpose.)
2: A new phone is cheap, but not so cheap that the prospect of buying one every single time someone fucks up and says my name doesn't sting a bit. Like I said, I'm pretty small-time at this point, mostly just making enough to cover my rent and stuff.
3: Even if I do both of those things, I also have to make sure people don't save the number under my real name in their address books, which is even harder to enforce.

I'm wondering if the more experienced folks here know of a solution that hasn't occurred to me. Maybe I just need to start using an alias, but since most of these people are already friends/acquaintances there's still bound to be slip-ups... I realize this is an inherently risky, inefficient business and there might not be much more I can do, but I figure it's worth asking around. I want to make this as safe as possible both for myself and for my clients. Any advice will be much appreciated!

As others have mentioned, rotate burners regularly. Its just a part of not getting caught. You get caught when you get lazy. Think of it as very cheap insurance.

Now what your friends do is beyond your control. Just simply don't deal with them if they are asking of the phone/via text. Tell them a simple 'hey man, stop by when you get a chance' is all they need to mention via txt. Tell them not to try and use code (I.E.  'i'm out of sugar, you got any?"), it's not going to fool anyone. Establish their regular amount and just bring that when you stop by.  This elimantes them coming to your place and by bringing only a small amount, it wont be considered distribution should you get popped by copper.

If they still fuck up, ignore them or have them get ahold of you through a friend. Dave (user) tells bob (mutal friend) to tell chris (the dealer) to give him a call. Chris calls with a new burner number.

I'm interested in others ideas as well.

Edit: also, if you're looking for even more security, do not bring your mobile with you when you make delivery. Read burb on the clearnet called "the snitch in your pocket', cellphone = bad bad.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: valakki on January 11, 2013, 05:29 pm
why dont you use emails instead of texting?
you can still do it on a telephone, all you need is internet access. some phones can run tor. maybe you could use tormail?
you could teach your clients how to use it...
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: AussieMitch on January 11, 2013, 05:34 pm
Here's what to do:

1. Download and instal Phonecopy. It works with every phone and will let you copy your contacts every time you get a new phone.
2. Get a second-hand phone or buy a burner one that isn't linked to your name.
3. Buy a sim-card and register it in a fake name from an internet cafe or over Tor.
4. Invent a fake name for yourself, that doesn't sound stupid and make EVERYONE save it in their phone. When meeting new people, introduce yourself as your made-up name.
5. NO NAMES, NO PLACES, NO DRUGS mentioned on the phone. Explain this to everyone you give your number to. Refer to everyone by a fake name and give every location you normally meet people at a fake name (I use the names of bars and restaurants around my city). Don't say the names of any drugs on the phone either and try and avoid referring to amounts of drugs or money. If any numbers and maths need to be communicated, send people a Privnote.com address so they can read it from the internet on their phone. If the cops tap your phone it should just sound like you have a lot of friends you go to bars and restaurants with.
6. Keep conversations as short as possible and if anyone says something suss HANG UP IMMEDIATELY. They will get the message quickly.
7. Disable the GPS on the phone if it's a smart-phone
8. If you have a business partner have a phone you have just for communicating with them. I have a phone just for the people I get on from, a phone just for having conversations with my business partner with and a phone I carry with me just for my customers. I change all numbers regularly but the number I use for customers I change the most often. I try and only carry one phone on me when i'm out of the house.
9. If you're ever asked why you have several phones on you say you own 2 different online business's and that way you know what it's about whenever the phone rings.

Follow these simple steps and you will be safe.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Wadozo on January 11, 2013, 06:11 pm
Here's what to do:

1. Download and instal Phonecopy. It works with every phone and will let you copy your contacts every time you get a new phone.
2. Get a second-hand phone or buy a burner one that isn't linked to your name.
3. Buy a sim-card and register it in a fake name from an internet cafe or over Tor.
4. Invent a fake name for yourself, that doesn't sound stupid and make EVERYONE save it in their phone. When meeting new people, introduce yourself as your made-up name.
5. NO NAMES, NO PLACES, NO DRUGS mentioned on the phone. Explain this to everyone you give your number to. Refer to everyone by a fake name and give every location you normally meet people at a fake name (I use the names of bars and restaurants around my city). Don't say the names of any drugs on the phone either and try and avoid referring to amounts of drugs or money. If any numbers and maths need to be communicated, send people a Privnote.com address so they can read it from the internet on their phone. If the cops tap your phone it should just sound like you have a lot of friends you go to bars and restaurants with.
6. Keep conversations as short as possible and if anyone says something suss HANG UP IMMEDIATELY. They will get the message quickly.
7. Disable the GPS on the phone if it's a smart-phone
8. If you have a business partner have a phone you have just for communicating with them. I have a phone just for the people I get on from, a phone just for having conversations with my business partner with and a phone I carry with me just for my customers. I change all numbers regularly but the number I use for customers I change the most often. I try and only carry one phone on me when i'm out of the house.
9. If you're ever asked why you have several phones on you say you own 2 different online business's and that way you know what it's about whenever the phone rings.

Follow these simple steps and you will be safe.

If you think someone following your tips here will keep safe, your sadly mistaken. You're under estimating the methods used by LE should you come to their attention. Fake names, implying you own online businesses and minimizing conversations will not prevent LE from gathering the information they require for a successful prosecution. Turning off a smart phones does absolutely nothing to prevent prying eyes from determining your location. Phones are like having a tracking device fitted. The best thing a dealer could do is use encrypted emails via PGP (GPG) sent through a secure service such as Tor mail. Privnote is NOT in anyway a secure method of communication, firstly requiring Javascript to be enabled (creating vulnerabilities that can be easily exploited) and secondly, leaving your sent Privnote email on a third party server in Plain Text, easily recoverable and able to be read by anyone who looks. Mobile Phones are convenient but will be the nail in the coffin if you or your customers come to the attention of LE. Mobile devices are LE's first step in acquiring information on suspects or person's of interest, and is definitely the most fruitful option available to them regarding the gathering of intelligence or potential evidence. If you look at past drug cases world wide, you'll see just how much incriminating evidence was gathered from the use of mobile phones in most, if not all cases. I've read transcripts which all document the ability of LE to gather detailed information which was able to be used to prosecute those charged.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: lolfbi on January 11, 2013, 06:46 pm
You need to be worrying about them mentioning your name when they get busted. Not while texting. You worrying about them finding out your name from texting is a complete waste of time because if they get busted they're gonna make them talk anyway. Deal on the internet and not in person.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: NorE on January 11, 2013, 07:01 pm
Texting and drug dealing is a combination that is really really stupid. Why more people haven't figured that out yet is beyond me sigh.. It's 2013 it should be common knowledge that a cellphone is like putting your own personal spy on your person too spy on your self..
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Wadozo on January 11, 2013, 07:04 pm
Texting and drug dealing is a combination that is really really stupid. Why more people haven't figured that out yet is beyond me sigh.. It's 2013 it should be common knowledge that a cellphone is like putting your own personal spy on your person too spy on your self..

Well said NorE. Nice analogy too. +1 
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: sweetone on January 11, 2013, 08:07 pm
please dont use privnote ! never trust in services like this  ;)
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: summer on January 11, 2013, 09:34 pm
http://www.sms2email.com/site/sms2email.php

This is an SMS forwarder, you can give it's  phone number to your buyer.  He can send an SMS to that, starting with your email address along with his order. The SMS gets forwarded to your e-mail account.

No phone number that leads to you, only an e-mail address which can be registered anonymously (eg. tormail), you can read the emails with a smart phone (via Orbot) on the go.

This way the contact can reach you via phone without an internet connection and you can receive it with your via internet without giving out your phone number.




Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: thisworld on January 12, 2013, 12:41 am
There's a lot of good information here.

I think that there are going to be security leaks somewhere.  There's no way around it.  However using these ideas to minimize them can shorten the list of leaks considerably. 
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: NortonTheFirst on January 12, 2013, 03:07 am
1. Download and instal Phonecopy. It works with every phone and will let you copy your contacts every time you get a new phone.
This looks really useful, thanks. Unfortunately my current burner is completely lacking in sync capabilities, so I'll probably end up buying a usb sim card reader and copying them that way. Definitely glad to know about this service though.

You need to be worrying about them mentioning your name when they get busted. Not while texting. You worrying about them finding out your name from texting is a complete waste of time because if they get busted they're gonna make them talk anyway. Deal on the internet and not in person.
This is a good point, but there isn't much I can do about that aside from treating people right and hoping they return the favor. I'm just trying to minimize the amount of evidence that could be used against me in such a situation. True, dealing on the Internet would be a lot safer, but in all honestly half the reason I'm doing this is that I'm sick of my area being flooded with nothing but Methylone and other random bullshit. I'm willing to take on some level of risk in order to give people around here access to the real thing.

http://www.sms2email.com/site/sms2email.php
That is pretty damn cool and might be just what I'm looking for, if only Orbot wouldn't drain my battery in like half an hour. Definitely keeping an eye on this!
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: luckysquid on January 13, 2013, 04:36 pm
This thread has some great ideas. Reading through silk road forums it's clear that the majority of posts are not from major players but more from curious small timers looking to earn a little cash here and there.

Agreed, texting over the normal cell phone airwaves is a terrible idea.
Yet texting if done correctly can be a great way to sort out the much smaller orders for close friends etc. I've been using an incredible app for a while now.

Wickr. Free app for iOS and Android.
Encrypted text messaging sent between devices with automatic message deletion after a set time.
You set yourself a master password and create a username with no other information needed.
Get your friends to ONLY message you here for anything drugs related.
https://www.mywickr.com/en/myapp.php

"From Wickr Website"
For message encryption, Wickr's patent-pending 'Digital Security Bubble' relies on both the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) symmetric block cipher implemented with random 256-bit keys and the asymmetric RSA-4096 algorithm.
Messages are encrypted by the sending device, sent through our service and provider networks in encrypted form, and decrypted by the receiving device. Our servers never process or store unencrypted messages nor are they ever in possession of the keys to decrypt them.

Certainly would recommend it as a small time solution.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: samspade72 on January 14, 2013, 02:20 am


Wickr. Free app for iOS and Android.

Certainly would recommend it as a small time solution.

The android app was still forthcoming since two or three days ago..
Youd be surprised how hard it is to get people to not reveal shit on texts or calls.
For IOS and Android. There is a app called Tiger Text.
It works like snapchat creating a temporary message. Though i think it isn't saved on the actual phone. Make sure yo also have a passcode on your phone that isnt 1111 or 0000..
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: signal16 on January 14, 2013, 07:06 am
STOP USING TEXT MESSAGES  and DO NOT use google voice services!  google logs everything and cooperates with the law!  text messages leave a nasty trail, no one deletes them, and the amount of hdd space it takes to record every text msg you ever sent and recieved in your life is less than a gig.  skimming through recorded texts doesnt take long compared to having to listen to conversations.  but your small time, i wouldnt worry too much about that shit.
also dont use orbot for android, it isnt secure!  never use silk road from your phone, are you kidding!

2 cents.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: samspade72 on January 14, 2013, 07:56 am
I've been dealing molly in small amounts for a few months now, just to friends and friends-of-friends. I know I'm not big enough to attract much attention yet, but if a client fucks up and gets busted, the cops are bound to find our texts on their phone, and suddenly I'm easy pickings. So, I've been having people contact me via a prepaid number that I pay for in cash. This seems pretty safe, but only as long as everyone's smart enough to not mention my name when texting me... Or in other words, probably not very fucking long. Today someone did just that, and now I'm trying to decide how to fix it.

The obvious solution is to just burn the phone and get a new one, but that seems like a total pain in the ass, and only semi-effective:
1: I'd have to arrange in-person meetings with all my clients to give them my new number. (Mass texting it via the old number would completely defeat the purpose.)
2: A new phone is cheap, but not so cheap that the prospect of buying one every single time someone fucks up and says my name doesn't sting a bit. Like I said, I'm pretty small-time at this point, mostly just making enough to cover my rent and stuff.
3: Even if I do both of those things, I also have to make sure people don't save the number under my real name in their address books, which is even harder to enforce.

I'm wondering if the more experienced folks here know of a solution that hasn't occurred to me. Maybe I just need to start using an alias, but since most of these people are already friends/acquaintances there's still bound to be slip-ups... I realize this is an inherently risky, inefficient business and there might not be much more I can do, but I figure it's worth asking around. I want to make this as safe as possible both for myself and for my clients. Any advice will be much appreciated!

Always change the location at the last minute. ( I hate it when dealers to that to me, but i see why)
Never have anything on you when you should.
Dont use words like cash and or drug names in texts and probably phone. But especially texts. Ever heard of the CTRL + F trick?
Att is known for cooperating with authotities, they even have an online form to petition your records.
Make sure theyre willing to wait and pay for your prices of whatever your selling. A lot of RL people have issues with waiting 2 weeks for drugs and or paying higher than street prices for something (perspectively) just as good.
lastly, if the cops stop you. Dont ask, dont tell. shut your trap and call a lawyer.

Is it true criminal lawyers wont go on retainer?
I had a few hang up in my face.
 :D
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Jonny Bench on January 14, 2013, 09:26 am
Ok I can shed some insight here:

When I went down they took my phone, phone companies work with LEO so they don't need anything to access your text messages, no warrants, nothing. Fuckers even changed my security password on my account so I had to physically go in to cancel my phone.
They pulled up everything. I used text secure for most stuff so those messages were encrypted. What they ended up getting was a deal I did 3 months prior by pulling surveilence cameras from a local mall. You couldn't see exactly what happened but they found me in there, I was actually pretty impressed with them since over all they seemed like a bunch of incompetent morons.

To go a little further, they also took my computers. With one little USB plug they were able to open all my passworded and encrypted files. Didn't find much there since it was all on cloud.
They opened up my deactivated facebook and went through all my pms screen shotting each page. They pretty much raped my life for 6 months then got bored and charged me.

Now I use drop phones, I buy them in cash and register them in different states. I change phones each month and format the SD and reboot them when done. I don't have casual conversations on it, it's all business. I go by an ambiguous name just like the dude above mentioned. If I feel something bad is going down I destroy the phone, I've done it a few times just for safety purposes.
I do use smart phones because they come in handy. I figure if it ever got to the point where they were tapping my line or tracing it, they would already be on my ass anyways so why bother.
I do keep everything to a minimum when on the phone, still use code words, never say specifics about locations, etc.

You can never be too safe.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: signal16 on January 14, 2013, 10:30 am
formatting your sd memory will not erase the data.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Errl_Kushman on January 14, 2013, 11:14 am
I've been dealing molly in small amounts for a few months now, just to friends and friends-of-friends. I know I'm not big enough to attract much attention yet, but if a client fucks up and gets busted, the cops are bound to find our texts on their phone, and suddenly I'm easy pickings. So, I've been having people contact me via a prepaid number that I pay for in cash. This seems pretty safe, but only as long as everyone's smart enough to not mention my name when texting me... Or in other words, probably not very fucking long. Today someone did just that, and now I'm trying to decide how to fix it. The obvious solution is to just burn the phone and get a new one, but that seems like a total pain in the ass, and only semi-effective: 1: I'd have to arrange in-person meetings with all my clients to give them my new number. (Mass texting it via the old number would completely defeat the purpose.) 2: A new phone is cheap, but not so cheap that the prospect of buying one every single time someone fucks up and says my name doesn't sting a bit. Like I said, I'm pretty small-time at this point, mostly just making enough to cover my rent and stuff. 3: Even if I do both of those things, I also have to make sure people don't save the number under my real name in their address books, which is even harder to enforce. I'm wondering if the more experienced folks here know of a solution that hasn't occurred to me. Maybe I just need to start using an alias, but since most of these people are already friends/acquaintances there's still bound to be slip-ups... I realize this is an inherently risky, inefficient business and there might not be much more I can do, but I figure it's worth asking around. I want to make this as safe as possible both for myself and for my clients. Any advice will be much appreciated!
Always change the location at the last minute. ( I hate it when dealers to that to me, but i see why) Never have anything on you when you should. Dont use words like cash and or drug names in texts and probably phone. But especially texts. Ever heard of the CTRL + F trick? Att is known for cooperating with authotities, they even have an online form to petition your records. Make sure theyre willing to wait and pay for your prices of whatever your selling. A lot of RL people have issues with waiting 2 weeks for drugs and or paying higher than street prices for something (perspectively) just as good. lastly, if the cops stop you. Dont ask, dont tell. shut your trap and call a lawyer. Is it true criminal lawyers wont go on retainer? I had a few hang up in my face. :D
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: kmfkewm on January 14, 2013, 11:40 am
there is absolutely no reason for drug deals to be done without encryption and anonymity. Tell your friends to get smartphones and gibberbot otr , then they can hit you up via encrypted text that is routed through Tor. Pretty much you want to be your xmpp handle, which you only access with Tor.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: sportshort on January 14, 2013, 03:17 pm
Our buyers text a six-digit code which tells us where to find their address, which is hand-written inside a book within a warehouse of books which I own. Once the text is acknowledged, they text a single digit which indicates the amount they desire. We only sell one product, so the only thing to specify is the amount. That amount is then delivered to the address associated with the code, never to any other address or location. Half the delivery locations are not even the buyers' homes, but public places like parks or restaurants. The phone number to text changes every three weeks or so. To find the new number, buyers go to a certain Facebook page and look at the cover photo. The photo shows a wholesome looking white couple standing on the front lawn of a house, and in the background is a for sale sign. The phone number is on the for sale sign as if it were the number of the realtor's office. We only use two names in our operation, one male and one female, and everyone goes by one of the two names depending on their gender. At the same time, we know (most of) the actual names of the buyers and routinely check arrest records, which are public information in our state. If a buyer gets popped, we will hopefully know about it and be on the alert. I'm sure there are holes in this plan, but it's what we've come up with so far.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: samspade72 on January 14, 2013, 07:40 pm
Ok I can shed some insight here:

When I went down they took my phone, phone companies work with LEO so they don't need anything to access your text messages, no warrants, nothing. Fuckers even changed my security password on my account so I had to physically go in to cancel my phone.
They pulled up everything. I used text secure for most stuff so those messages were encrypted. What they ended up getting was a deal I did 3 months prior by pulling surveilence cameras from a local mall. You couldn't see exactly what happened but they found me in there, I was actually pretty impressed with them since over all they seemed like a bunch of incompetent morons.

To go a little further, they also took my computers. With one little USB plug they were able to open all my passworded and encrypted files. Didn't find much there since it was all on cloud.
They opened up my deactivated facebook and went through all my pms screen shotting each page. They pretty much raped my life for 6 months then got bored and charged me.

Now I use drop phones, I buy them in cash and register them in different states. I change phones each month and format the SD and reboot them when done. I don't have casual conversations on it, it's all business. I go by an ambiguous name just like the dude above mentioned. If I feel something bad is going down I destroy the phone, I've done it a few times just for safety purposes.
I do use smart phones because they come in handy. I figure if it ever got to the point where they were tapping my line or tracing it, they would already be on my ass anyways so why bother.
I do keep everything to a minimum when on the phone, still use code words, never say specifics about locations, etc.

You can never be too safe.
Wow +1.
now thats insight!
thank you!
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Jonny Bench on January 14, 2013, 08:00 pm
formatting your sd memory will not erase the data.

You sure about that one?
I'm pretty sure SD cards are too small/primitive to retain all the data of your usage.
Either way, I got lucky one on part because they took me to a hospital and while I was cuffed to a bed I asked the nurse for my phone so I can send a message to someone to let them know what happened. I formatted the card, reset the phone then broke the sd card/sim card and put it all back together.
They tried to get me with tampering with evidence but since it happened before it was evidence that didn't stick.
Luckily due to lazy police tactics and a really expensive lawyer, I got off with nothing but a slap on the wrist.
Let me add that I did not get busted by DEA, it it were DEA I would definitely be singing a whole new tune. These were local police that weren't well versed on how to handle the situation. They caught me because I was stupid and I fucked up royally. Everyone was very surprised when they heard, I don't fit the part. I'm well dressed, clean, business professional, formal government employee, etc.
I think this helped me in the long run since I had a good standing with the local community, charity organizations and friends in high places. Not everyone will be so fortunate. I count my lucky stars every night that I'm not in jail. I lost allot, friends, connections, money, reputation, etc. It was bad enough to where I had to move and start over in a new town where no one knows me.
Security is everything. If it cost you 3/4 of your profit to stay safe than you know what, you're making 1/4 worth of profit while staying out of jail. DO NOT NEGLECT SECURITY

Enough of me, stay safe boys
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: zeke on January 14, 2013, 09:57 pm
Our buyers text a six-digit code which tells us where to find their address, which is hand-written inside a book within a warehouse of books which I own. Once the text is acknowledged, they text a single digit which indicates the amount they desire. We only sell one product, so the only thing to specify is the amount. That amount is then delivered to the address associated with the code, never to any other address or location. Half the delivery locations are not even the buyers' homes, but public places like parks or restaurants. The phone number to text changes every three weeks or so. To find the new number, buyers go to a certain Facebook page and look at the cover photo. The photo shows a wholesome looking white couple standing on the front lawn of a house, and in the background is a for sale sign. The phone number is on the for sale sign as if it were the number of the realtor's office. We only use two names in our operation, one male and one female, and everyone goes by one of the two names depending on their gender. At the same time, we know (most of) the actual names of the buyers and routinely check arrest records, which are public information in our state. If a buyer gets popped, we will hopefully know about it and be on the alert. I'm sure there are holes in this plan, but it's what we've come up with so far.

That is an amazing system!

Might I suggest to anyone that regularly picks up burner phones checkout PurpleLotus's hardcore coupon collection.  http://silkroadvb5piz3r.onion/silkroad/item/baa353a3bc  I think its around $60 or $70 now.  It has several really good useful coupons, one being for a free prepaid phone along with free minutes.  I get a new phone each month along with free minutes for the month.  Each month towards the end I'll pick up a new one and destroy the old one.  Its $40 off any AT&T go phone, but there is a $40 basic phone with limited capabilities that I get.  There is also a $70 smartphone so it comes out to around $35.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: signal16 on January 15, 2013, 03:02 am
yes im sure formatting is not a secure way to wipe data from any storage medium.  and flash memory is not primitive.  whatever data was there when you formatted can be recovered,  gotta write over the data to actually erase it.  and better yet physically destroy and separate.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: BossNab on January 16, 2013, 12:40 am
I'll let you know that cell phone security should be one of the least of your worries when it comes to dealing. Tbh you shouldn't be using text messages to make deals unless you are using an encryption program (Such as Wickr) to secure all of your texts.

The people I know who have been busted by cops for dealing have all been small time and have sold to just their friends. Just as the OP stated.

The way cops do it is they will bust one of your clientele, your close friend from school for example. The cops will then ask the guy where he got the goods from and to go pick up from you again very casually or he will go to prison. Business is conducted normally (Obviously your "friend" is going to shit them self and not cover for you) and boom cops bust you the next day. This is how most people got caught in my experience. Cell phone text messages and such are just extra evidence used to prosecute you.

There are ways I prevent things like this from happening...Although they may or maynot work. They are definitely much safer than just texting each other back and forth. And may also make you harder to track and prosecute.

This is for "small time" dealing of course.
1. Use encryption (Wickr) if you are going to be texting. Call them if possible/needed.
2. If you're dealing molly. I personally do not sell to people when its not "rave season". Most of my sales come around the times when festivals and such are coming up. If New Years just ended...why the fuck are you trying to pick up a jar from me?  Meet up with people. Tell them you have a supply for this show coming up. Get it off your hands ASAP (Although most usually wait until the last minute -___-).
3. Do not sell to someone more than once (Or in multiple instances). Keep it quick and simple. Let them know to get their order in and that you have a limited supply. If they keep picking up from you on multiple occasions there could be a chance (or they will increase the chance) they got/get busted and you know...(Refer to above).
4. Deal with people who are intelligent and are not likely to get caught with your shit. Don't deal to that that sketch meth addict down the street. Also, If you can...Sell in bulk. Less money but way more secure...which is most important here.
5. Make it CLEAR to your "friends" not to give out your personal information (Name, Number, Etc).
6. Keep your house clean at all times. That means no empty caps. No scales. No drugs. Nothing. Figure out a stash spot unrelated to you...A trustworthy colleagues house? Pay him XXX bucks And swing by when you need you to do work. Cops will search your house if you get busted.
7. FOR THE LOVE OF GOD DO NOT USE FACEBOOK. Just ignore/delete all messages that have anything to do with drugs and dealing.
8. And lastly...if it seems sketch...just don't deal with it. You can never be too paranoid (Well sort of hah).

I think that's it. Criticism is welcome. I am not saying this is full-proof in anyway although most of of these things are just common sense. But this is what I feel keeps me the most secure when I'm dealing with my friends.

Cheers

Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: mettiez on January 16, 2013, 02:08 am
Fuck, I deal.. I'd say pretty small time, I make anywhere from 500 to 1000 bucks a month, only to friends but I dont use any security at all really.

occasionally I'll do a larger deal to a friend of a friend of a friend and I get a bit paranoid, but other than that I don't really see how the police would catch me. I mean, dont they first have to have some evidence to start searching texts and emails?

I fucking hate the police, what a bunch of losers. Seriously.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: kmfkewm on January 16, 2013, 06:51 am
best bet for IRL dealing is to anonymously take orders and payment (bitcoin is nice), and then dead drop the product and anonymously send the drop location to your client. GPS can be used for determining the location of the drop, and for the client locating it. That way even if one of your clients is busted, they cannot get you in a controlled buy as you always drop the drugs and never hand them off. And the money is not going to be marked or tied to you either. Of course to make this system as best as it can be, your clients should not know who you are either. There are a few ways you can accomplish this, perhaps a few highly trusted friends can know the deal and spread around business cards with your anonymous contact information on them or something.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: raveryote on January 16, 2013, 08:12 pm
http://www.sms2email.com/site/sms2email.php

This is an SMS forwarder, you can give it's  phone number to your buyer.  He can send an SMS to that, starting with your email address along with his order. The SMS gets forwarded to your e-mail account.

No phone number that leads to you, only an e-mail address which can be registered anonymously (eg. tormail), you can read the emails with a smart phone (via Orbot) on the go.

This way the contact can reach you via phone without an internet connection and you can receive it with your via internet without giving out your phone number.

I like this.

There are many services like this, and getting a texting number from one of them is pretty cheap.

Use a coffee shop's wifi or fastfood restaurant's wifi to register, if tor relays are blocked.

Use an alias.

Make sure you move around, use different public wifi networks over time.

If you carry a smartphone with you, make sure you've rooted the device, unlocked it, and disabled GPS.

Ensure you have full control.

If the volks politzi discover they cannot trap and trace your phone, no biggie. you're already screwed by the time the volks politzi attempt a trap and trace.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: flwrchlds9 on January 18, 2013, 11:01 am
safest way is to not deal. everything else is only try to balance how much risk you want to take.

some complicated methods here are good ideas, but not realistic for small irl street type dealings.

try to turn off gps etc will not help, this not how you usually get got, and phone company knows where phone is with gps on or off, pointless to worry about this. get dumbest phone you can get, cash burner.

deal with friends or close related people and try for no dumb fucks.

always have exit plan or story in mind wherever you are when you have dirt on you. always know what you going to do if shit happen right now. have plan. thing can happen very fast. keep house clean and don't deal from where you stay. everything you do, always think, how this sound if said in front of jury. if something happens - KEEP QUIET SAY NOTHING CALL LAWYER.

that is really what you can do.

all time you spend selling shit cut M1 to festival kiddies as fire molly for $$$$/g, hope you take 30% of all profit and save in secret place for lawyer fund :D    [we make joke, but no joke about lawyer fund ;) ]

.
Title: Re: Small-time dealing, managing cell phone security
Post by: Thurius on January 18, 2013, 12:22 pm
safest way is to not deal. everything else is only try to balance how much risk you want to take.

some complicated methods here are good ideas, but not realistic for small irl street type dealings.

try to turn off gps etc will not help, this not how you usually get got, and phone company knows where phone is with gps on or off, pointless to worry about this. get dumbest phone you can get, cash burner.

deal with friends or close related people and try for no dumb fucks.

always have exit plan or story in mind wherever you are when you have dirt on you. always know what you going to do if shit happen right now. have plan. thing can happen very fast. keep house clean and don't deal from where you stay. everything you do, always think, how this sound if said in front of jury. if something happens - KEEP QUIET SAY NOTHING CALL LAWYER.

that is really what you can do.

all time you spend selling shit cut M1 to festival kiddies as fire molly for $$$$/g, hope you take 30% of all profit and save in secret place for lawyer fund :D    [we make joke, but no joke about lawyer fund ;) ]
Good advice, but there's one thing that can't be stressed enough.

If you get caught, do NOT EVER EVER EVER talk to the cops. Just demand a lawyer. Talking to them can't help you, it can only be used against you. Don't try to be a smart ass and think otherwise, doing so will nothing but harm you and we wouldn't want that now would we. There's tons of law professors on YouTube that'll tell you the exact same thing. So don't fuck up on this easy part.