The dark web is a hidden part of the internet most people can’t access. It’s where illegal activities, like buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information, take place.
If you’re not familiar with the dark web, you might be wondering what it is, how information gets there, and what happens if your data is involved.
In this article, we answer these questions and more, so you can understand the risks and how to help protect yourself from possible scams down the road.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a secretive network where websites and services operate anonymously. Cybercriminals and underground communities often use it.
Dark web users need special software and browsers to access it to stay private and anonymous.
How Does My Data End Up on the Dark Web?
Your personal data can end up on the dark web through various means, but the most common are data breaches and targeted hacking.
Data breaches occur when cybercriminals gain unauthorized access to databases containing personal information such as names, addresses, Social Security numbers, credit card details, and login credentials. These breaches can happen due to vulnerabilities in the database software, or through social engineering techniques that trick employees into revealing their login credentials.
Once the cybercriminals have the stolen data, they can sell it on the dark web to other criminals who can use it for identity theft, credit card fraud, or other illegal activities. The data can be sold in bulk or individually, depending on its value.
Targeted hacking is another way that data can end up on the dark web. In this case, cybercriminals specifically target individuals or organizations to gain access to their sensitive data.
They may use phishing emails, social engineering, or malware attacks to access login credentials or other personal information. Once they have the data, they can sell it on the dark web or use it for their own illegal purposes.
What Happens if Your Information Gets on the Dark Web?
If your information ends up on the dark web, particularly following a data breach, it becomes susceptible to exploitation by identity thieves. These criminals utilize dark web platforms to trade and leverage your compromised data, exposing you to the dangers of identity theft and other types of fraud.
How Do You Know If You’re on the Dark Web?
To check if your information is on the dark web, you can use IdentityIQ identity theft protection services. All you need to do is enter the information you want scanned for on the dark web and IdentityIQ services does the rest. IdentityIQ scans the dark web for the information you provide, such as your email addresses, home address, driver’s license number, and Social Security number.
If a match is found, IdentityIQ services can send you an alert in real-time so that you can take action to protect your accounts and keep your sensitive information safe from unauthorized access. With IdentityIQ, you can stay informed and help safeguard your information.
Can I Get My Info Removed from the Dark Web?
Once your information is on the dark web, you cannot remove it. However, you can protect your personal information better to help prevent anyone who has it from causing harm.
What to Do if Your Information Is on the Dark Web?
If you find out that your information is on the dark web, here are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Keep an eye on your accounts: Watch out for any unusual activity or transactions in your financial accounts, credit cards, and online accounts. If you notice anything suspicious, immediately report it to your bank or the relevant service providers.
- Change your passwords: Reset the passwords for all your online accounts, including email, social media, and banking websites. Make sure to use strong and unique passwords for each account. You may also consider using a password manager to securely store your passwords.
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible: This adds more security when you log into your accounts by requiring a second verification step, such as a unique code sent to your phone.
- Inform the major credit bureaus: Get in touch with the major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert or freeze on your credit report. This makes it harder for fraudsters to open new accounts using your name.
- Consider using identity theft protection services: IdentityIQ can monitor your personal information, send alerts for possible suspicious activity, and assist in case your identity is stolen.
- Be careful with your personal information: Only share sensitive information online when necessary. Be careful of phishing attempts, fake websites, and unsolicited requests for personal details.
Bottom Line
It’s essential to be aware of the potential risks of the dark web and take steps to help protect yourself. By staying vigilant, monitoring your accounts, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and using identity theft protection services, you can help minimize the chances of your personal information ending up on the dark web, or even worse, being used by a scammer.
Remember, your proactive efforts can make a significant difference in keeping your online identity secure.