In today’s digital age, businesses and individuals alike are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. One such threat is the dark web, a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers. The dark web is often used for illegal activities, including the buying and selling of stolen data, such as credit card information, login credentials, and other sensitive information.
What is Dark Web Monitoring?
How To Start Monitoring The Dark Web To Protect Your Business Data?
Dark web monitoring is the process of searching for and identifying sensitive information that has been compromised and is being sold on the dark web. This information can include credit card numbers, social security numbers, email addresses, and other personal data. Dark web monitoring services use specialized tools and techniques to search for this information and alert businesses and individuals when their data is found.
Customers are empowered to search through our entire data set & continually detect mentions of their name, domain, or organization. The platform automates the identification of relevant exploit chatter, assisting businesses in prioritizing remediation efforts based on increased adversary intent or capabilities. It collects content from numerous Tor sites, IRC channels, forums, paste sites, and underground marketplaces, continuously adding new high-value sources to expand visibility of the dark web.
Why is Dark Web Monitoring Important?
Dark web monitoring is important because it allows businesses and individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves from cyber threats. By identifying compromised data early, organizations can take action to prevent further damage and minimize the impact of a data breach. Additionally, dark web monitoring can help organizations comply with data protection regulations and maintain their reputation.
What A Managed Service Provider Can Do
How Does Dark Web Monitoring Work?
Am I on the dark web?
How Do You Know if Your Information Is on the Dark Web? If your data is available on the dark web, one of the easiest ways to find out is to check the “Have I Been Pwned” (HIBP) website. It's a free service, and all you have to do is conduct a search using your email address or phone number.
Dark web monitoring services use a variety of techniques to search for compromised data on the dark web. These techniques include:
Dark Web Monitoring Services
- Crawling and indexing dark web sites and forums
- Using human intelligence and machine learning to identify patterns and trends
- Monitoring known dark web marketplaces and forums
- Using honeypots and other decoy techniques to attract and identify cybercriminals
For example, if it’s your Social Security number, whoever is in possession of it can open fraudulent accounts in your name, file fraudulent tax returns and health insurance claims, and more. If they manage to get a password that was leaked in a data breach, they can use that password to log in to any of the online accounts where you use it. The power of dark web monitoring tools in cybersecurity cannot be overstated. These advanced tools are designed to delve deep into the dark web, unearthing information that traditional web crawlers cannot reach.
- Determine if your corporation’s information is being bought or sold on the dark web, or, see if personal information about the c-suite has ever been found on the dark web at all.
- The longer you wait, the longer you expose yourself to ID fraud—or financial fraud.
- Protect your MSP organization, your end customers and add new revenue streams.
- Because of complex access requirements, search engines like Google do not index entities on the dark web.
FAQs about Dark Web Monitoring
When using SpyCloud’s recaptured data for consumer alerts, choose what data points to share for education and action. I have been fortunate to work with individuals who possess the knowledge and have the established networks to perform this service. In my experience, the number of individuals who can operate in this area is minimal compared to the generalists. Typically, they will provide a portal to access helpful management tools to customize scan criteria and include reporting. These interfaces are handy, but at the end of the day, they only provide insights on what they scan and not the whole Dark Web. As a result, some threats may go overlooked, leaving you more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
What is the difference between the dark web and the deep web?
The deep web refers to all parts of the internet that are not indexed by search engines, including databases, intranets, and other private sites. The dark web is a subset of the deep web that is intentionally hidden and requires special software to access. The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, while the deep web is simply a part of the internet that is not accessible through standard web browsers.
Can I monitor the dark web myself?
While it is possible to access the dark web using special software, it is not recommended for individuals without specialized training and expertise. The dark web is a dangerous and unpredictable environment, and it is easy to accidentally expose oneself to cyber threats. Additionally, dark web monitoring services have access to specialized tools and techniques that are not available to the general public.
How often should I monitor the dark web?
I chose ID Agent because it provides a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity tools specifically designed for MSPs and resellers. This specialization makes it stand out from general-purpose cybersecurity platforms. It’s best for MSPs and resellers who are primarily focusing on small businesses, given its tailored features and scalable solutions.
Dark web monitoring should be performed regularly, ideally on a daily basis. This is because new data is constantly being added to the dark web, and it is important to identify compromised data as early as possible.
What should I do if my data is found on the dark web?
If your data is found on the dark web, it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself from further damage. This may include changing passwords, monitoring your credit reports, and notifying affected parties. Additionally, it is recommended to work with a cybersecurity professional to assess the extent of the breach and take steps to prevent future breaches.
Dark Web Monitoring is essential because cybercriminals can easily buy and sell stolen data on the dark web. If your personal or business information is stolen, it can be used for fraud and other illegal activities. Dark Web Monitoring alerts you to potential threats, so you can take action to protect yourself. Ascendant Technologies, Inc. is the go-to provider of digital monitoring services throughout New Jersey. Our IT technicians conduct detailed research with optimized strategies for your business. If we discover any potential risks or threats, we provide quick alerts so you can take action to protect your organization right away.
How much does dark web monitoring cost?
The cost of dark web monitoring services varies depending on the provider and the level of service. Some providers offer basic monitoring services for free, while others charge a monthly or annual fee for more comprehensive monitoring. It is important to carefully evaluate different providers and choose a service that meets your needs and budget.
How do I scan the dark web?
- Go to one.google.com.
- Under “Dark web report,” click Try now.
- Click Run scan.
Conclusion
Dark web monitoring services are an essential tool for businesses and individuals looking to protect themselves from cyber threats. By identifying compromised data early, organizations can take proactive steps to prevent further damage and minimize the impact of a data breach. While it is possible to access the dark web yourself, it is not recommended for individuals without specialized training and expertise. Instead, consider working with a reputable dark web monitoring service to ensure that your data is protected.
What is a free dark web scan?
The scan allows you to see if any of your credentials have been stolen in a data breach and take the necessary steps to protect yourself by changing your passwords to ones that are strong and unique.
