Protect Your Online Identity With Dark Web Monitoring
Understanding the Importance of Monitoring the Dark Web
The first step for many fledgling cybersecurity programs is to get visibility into the types of data they collect, the amounts of data collected, and the security measures on their network. However, many organizations fail to consider the information that may be living outside of their internal network. Beginning to actively monitor the dark web can provide invaluable insights into your organization’s risk profile, and whether you are a target, or have been targeted by malicious dark web actors. The part of the iceberg under the water is the “deep web.” Search engines won’t bring you to the pages here. This is where you are when you sign into your bank account online with your username and password. It’s where you communicate with other people through social media, chat services and messaging platforms.
The *dark web* is often shrouded in mystery, with numerous misconceptions surrounding its nature and purpose. However, it serves as a significant area for both illicit activities and the sale of sensitive information. For businesses and individuals alike, monitoring the dark web has become an essential process in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining security.
The reality is that they will check the most publicly available databases (with 8+ billion entries), which typically holds old data, commonly an accumulation of previous breach data sets. It is less likely that they will scan the forums that are only accessible by trusted members and highly unlikely they perform a deep web scan where peer-to-peer trading occurs. So, if you plan to use them, keep in mind they will monitor and report on publicly available information; they do not delete it. The Dashlane system is one of the options that all businesses should consider to get business identity protection. This service, like the ACID and DarkOwl systems, is a hands-off process that doesn’t require any involvement from the technicians of the protected company.
What is the Dark Web?
Thus, it is important that employees change their passwords every 30–90 days and use strong passwords for every account. Security awareness training can educate employees on the threats that they may face, how to respond to them, and how to keep corporate information safe. Effective security awareness training includes online training materials, employee acknowledgment of IT security guidelines, and simulations of real cyberattacks. However, constant online security monitoring is typically a paid service offered by a certain provider (including the ones we’ve listed above). For both Advanced and Comprehensive Plan users, IDStrong offers up to $1M in identity theft insurance. Plus, if their dark web scanner detects a leak, you’ll be able to change several account passwords with just a few clicks.
Flare’s platform automates collection & detection for stealer log files from dozens of public & hidden Telegram channels in addition to leading dark web marketplaces like Russian & Genesis market. We collect more than a million new stealer logs per week & empower seamless searches through Flare’s easy to use UI. Because of this anonymity, the Dark Web is the perfect setting for scammers to buy and sell user data in unregulated marketplaces. The dark web is a haven for criminals who seek to exploit vulnerabilities and steal sensitive information from unsuspecting victims.
The service focuses on monitoring open, deep, and dark web sources to provide insights into threat actors’ operations, enabling businesses to take appropriate action. Dark web monitoring means keeping a close watch on the dark web to detect if any stolen or sensitive information surfaces there. It’s about using threat intelligence to identify risks, like leaked personal details or confidential business data. This monitoring helps in extracting actionable information from the raw intelligence gathered, enabling faster incident response to potential security incidents. Dark web monitoring is the process of searching for, and tracking, your organization’s information on the dark web. Dark web monitoring tools are similar to a search engine (like Google) for the dark web.
I picked LastPass for its combination of password management and dark web scanning features. When I compared it to similar offerings, I found LastPass provides a broader range of features catering to individual users. I consider it best for individual users requiring password management and dark web scans.
The *dark web* is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through conventional web browsers. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access, primarily known as Tor (The Onion Router). Here are some key characteristics:
- Anonymity: It offers anonymity for both users and website operators.
- Illicit Markets: It hosts illegal marketplaces for drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
- Privacy Advocacy: It is also a haven for privacy advocates and whistleblower platforms.
The Necessity of Monitoring the Dark Web
The increasing incidence of data breaches and identity theft underscores the imperative of monitoring the dark web. Organizations must stay vigilant to detect potential threats before they escalate. Here are several reasons why it is necessary:
- Identify Stolen Data: Quickly discover if personal or corporate data is being sold or shared.
- Prevent Fraud: Proactively reducing the risk of identity theft and fraud attempts.
- Reputation Protection: Preserve brand integrity by reacting to potential reputational threats.
- Compliance: Meet regulatory and compliance requirements by ensuring data protection.
Methods for Effective Monitoring
To effectively monitor the *dark web*, it is crucial to employ several strategies and tools. Consider the following approaches:
- Automated Monitoring Tools: Utilize software that automates the scanning of dark web forums and marketplaces.
- Human Intelligence: Engage security experts to delve deeper into discussions and emerging threats.
- Alerts and Notifications: Set up a system for timely alerts if your information appears in dark web sources.
Common FAQs About Monitoring the Dark Web
1. How often should I monitor the dark web?
Regular checks are advisable, but frequency can vary based on the size and complexity of the business. A monthly or quarterly review is common for most organizations.
2. What kind of data can be found on the dark web?
- OnionLand is also the name of a prominent site that acts as a major search repository for finding items on the dark web.
- In light of insufficient knowledge of their Attack Surface and missing Attack Surface Management program, many large organizations systematically lose and expose their internal data.
- The bottom line – you need to scan the dark web to check if your secrets are exposed.
- That’s why the dark web is a haven for all sorts of illegal activities, including buying and selling sensitive data, such as personal information and login credentials.
Information can include stolen credit cards, personal identification numbers, login credentials, and even proprietary business data.
3. Is dark web monitoring legal?
Yes, monitoring the dark web for protective measures is legal as long as you are not engaging in any illicit activities.
4. What should I do if my information is found on the dark web?
If your data is discovered, it’s essential to take immediate action, such as changing passwords, contacting financial institutions, and possibly reporting to law enforcement.
Conclusion
In an age where digital security is paramount, monitoring the dark web plays a critical role in protecting sensitive information. By staying informed and equipped with the right tools, organizations can mitigate risks and safeguard their digital assets effectively.
