The term “dark web” refers to internet content that is encrypted and not indexed by standard search engines. Specific browsers, such as TOR Browser, are required to access the dark web. When opposed to ordinary websites, the dark web provides a tremendous deal of privacy and anonymity.
Did you know that a large portion of the internet is hidden from the average user? This darkweb is made up of websites and services that are intentionally difficult to access, often for nefarious reasons. But what is this darkweb all about, and how can you use it safely? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the darkweb. We’ll cover how to access it, what kind of content is available, and how to stay safe while using it. So keep reading to learn more!
As a business owner, it’s important to be aware of what’s happening on the DarkWeb. This is the part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines and is often used for illicit activities. By monitoring and scanning the DarkWeb, you can stay ahead of any threats and protect your business.
I’m sure by now you’ve heard about the several massive data breaches that happened in the last 12 months. If not, where have you been? Anyway, if your company’s data was found on the DarkWeb, don’t panic. There are things you can do to protect yourself and your customers.
How to Check if Your Data is on the Dark Web
Your banking, social media, and email accounts, as well as your Social Security number, may be sold on the dark web. Try scanning the dark web to check if any of your data is there. You can also use a dark web monitoring service. These tools alert you when they find your data.
What You Can Do If Your Business Data Is Found On The Darkweb?
Regain Privacy
Unfortunately, there’s little you can do to get your information off the dark web once it’s there. However, you may improve the security of your personal data to ensure that anyone who has access to it will not pose a threat to you.
Identify What Type of Data Was Found On The Darkweb
The type of information discovered will determine how you continue. If it was a credit card number or something related to your bank, immediately freeze your cards and accounts and contact your bank to find out what steps to take next.
If it was your driver’s license, make an appointment with your local DMV to receive a replacement. Report it to the US State Department if it was your passport number. Contact the Social Security Administration if you have a leaked Social Security number.
If your email address was compromised, you should reset the passwords for all accounts associated with it. You may begin to notice spoof emails as well. Notify your email service provider right away.
Virus-check Your Computer
If a hacker obtained your information via the dark web, it’s probable that they’ve already breached your security. Check your computer, smartphone, and other devices with operating systems with antivirus software.
All Passwords Should Be Changed
If your email address was revealed, resetting your password is necessary. Even if it wasn’t your email address that was exposed on the dark web, you should reset passwords for as many of your accounts as possible, especially those where payment information is stored.
Why should you monitor your company and personal data on the dark web?
Dark web monitoring is the technique of searching for and tracking personal data on an area of the internet not normally accessible. If your Social Security number or other identifying information is stolen, it may be sold on the dark web to someone looking to commit fraud. Dark web monitoring can help you secure your identity and thus your finances.
Hundreds of thousands of websites are scanned every day by dark web monitoring services for personal information that hackers can use to steal your identity. Social Security numbers, email addresses, passport numbers, medical identification numbers, bank account numbers, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, credit/debit cards, retail/membership cards, and other personal information may be included.
Proactive Monitoring Can Help Reduce Your Risk
Because cybercriminals aren’t going away anytime soon, it’s critical that you do everything you can to protect your data. Monitoring your online information through dark web monitoring and credit monitoring—especially through services that do all the legwork and alert you to potential issues—can help you sleep easier at night, knowing you’ll be alerted if you need to take action to avoid financial or reputational loss.
Cybercrime is on the rise, and as a business owner, you need to do everything in your power to protect your data. This includes using dark web monitoring services and credit monitoring services that will keep an eye on your information and alert you if anything looks suspicious. The good news is that there are plenty of options out there when it comes to both dark web monitoring and credit monitoring, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget. If you’re not sure where to start or would like some free advice, give us a call at 855-448-2178—our team of experts would be happy to help.
