Extensive Digital Risk Protection
When we’re not careful who we share that information with — or when websites experience data breaches — our personal information can end up for sale on the dark web. Dark web monitoring consists of using tools to continuously monitor known locations on the dark web for the mention of specific company names, email addresses, IP addresses, and other specific data. The locations monitored may be hidden chat rooms, private websites, peer-to-peer networks, social media platforms, botnets, and black market sites. By leveraging comprehensive monitoring and analysis of the deep and dark web, enterprises can use the Darkweb Tracker to proactively detect potential threats and gain insights into emerging cybercriminal tactics. This then empowers them to take proactive measures, respond swiftly to incidents, and fortify their defenses against cyber threats, ultimately protecting their assets, reputation, and customer trust. With the capacity to monitor and analyze activity in the dark web, the Darkweb Tracker helps governments enhance national security.
Find out if there are any compromised accounts being sold and shared on the dark web with a one-time scan. Arm yourself with up-to-date information and insights into building a successful cybersecurity strategy, with blogs and webinars from the StickmanCyber team, and industry experts. Data is constantly crawled and updated in real-time, providing organizations with up-to-date insights to support proactive threat hunting and mitigation efforts. Explore the connections and relationships between the added data items, sources, or entities.
Understanding the Importance of a Dark Web Monitor
In today’s digital age, protecting personal information is essential. With the rise of cybercrime, monitoring the dark web has become a crucial element in maintaining online security. A dark web monitor serves as a tool that scans hidden online spaces for compromised data.
The clear web, or surface web, is the part of the internet that is indexed by traditional search engines such as Google, Bing and Yahoo and can be accessed by standard web browsers. Dark web monitoring is the process of searching for and continuously tracking information on the dark web. The information can be about an organization, its users or malicious actors on the dark web. Because it’s nearly impossible to delete personal data once it finds its way to the Dark Web, the best cure is prevention.
When it comes to scanning the dark web for stolen data, these 10 dark web scanners are some of the best options available. Keep in mind something I learned many years ago when I delivered my first dark web monitoring report at a Board Meeting; they asked, “what do you expect me to do about this? I quickly learned that any reporting method must have an accompanying action because, without an action, the report is just hype. Whether you need to safeguard your brand-new cloud-native APIs or your existing web applications, the Wallarm API Security platform provides all the features necessary to protect your business from rising threats. Sometimes, a company will suffer a data breach and have no idea it was arbitrated until it is too late. Services that keep tabs on the dark web can spot the theft of delicate data immediately, preventing extensive damage to a corporation.
- Account takeover is identity theft where fraudsters gain unauthorized access to user credentials and take over their personal and business accounts.
- Without dark web monitoring, organisations can spend months not knowing that a data breach occurred.
- The dark web is mostly used for buying and selling illegal contraband, but the threats on the dark web don’t always stop at the internet.
- Dark Web scanners can check all of the marketplaces, chat rooms, forums, and other Dark Web sites that lack in-depth privacy protections.
- While credit card fraud is frustrating, your credit card numbers are among those with the least negligible value on the darknet.
Identity Guard offers Dark Web monitoring on its low-cost Value plan, making it easy for anyone to get alerted to vulnerabilities when their data has been published online. While not as comprehensive as other providers on this list, Identity Guard does make Dark Web monitoring accessible without adding costs for extra features and security services on top of its basic Value plan pricing. Cybercriminals are not likely to let up anytime soon, so it is extremely important to do everything you can to protect your company’s information.
What is the Dark Web?
Aura constantly monitors your information online and will notify you about any and all unauthorized access or possible data breaches. We chose these 10 services because they’re free, subscription-based services that can conduct a quick free dark web scan to spot data breaches. Despite their reach, no dark web scanner can cover all the stolen data that exists across the entire dark web as a result of criminal activity. However, if you suspect your personal information has been compromised, a dark web scan can be a great resource to help ease your mind. Each plan below combines dark web monitoring with a wealth of other features.
This in turn also helps organisations reduce the window of opportunity a criminal has to make copies of sensitive data and sell it. Dark web monitoring can identify stolen customer lists or data; employee login credentials, business email domains, or IP addresses. If this information is discovered on the dark web, you can identify a current or past data breach, and take steps to mitigate financial or reputational damage.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software, such as Tor, to access, and is often associated with illegal activities. However, it also serves as a platform for privacy advocates and whistleblowers.
Why Use a Dark Web Monitor?
A dark web monitor can be an invaluable resource for several reasons:
- Proactive Protection: Identifies potential threats before they can cause harm.
- Data Breach Alerts: Provides notifications if personal information is found on the dark web.
- Identity Theft Prevention: Helps in safeguarding against identity theft by monitoring personal data.
How Does a Dark Web Monitor Work?
A dark web monitor typically follows these steps:
- Data Collection: The tool collects data from various sources across the dark web.
- Scan and Analysis: It analyzes the data for personal information such as email addresses, credit card details, and social security numbers.
- Alerts: Users receive notifications if their information is detected, allowing them to take immediate action.
Features of a Good Dark Web Monitor
When choosing a dark web monitor, consider the following features:
- Comprehensive Coverage: It should cover a wide range of online marketplaces and forums.
- User-Friendly Interface: A simple dashboard makes it easier for users to navigate.
- Real-Time Alerts: Instant notifications are critical for prompt response.
- Additional Security Tools: Some monitors come with added protection measures such as VPNs or password managers.
Common FAQs About Dark Web Monitors
Q1: How often should I check my dark web monitor results?
A1: It is recommended to regularly check the results, ideally monthly, to stay updated on any new threats.
Q2: Can I use a dark web monitor for my business?
A2: Yes, businesses can benefit significantly from dark web monitors to protect sensitive corporate data and customer information.
Q3: Are dark web monitors expensive?
A3: Prices vary, but many services offer affordable options tailored to individual or business needs.
Final Thoughts
Utilizing a dark web monitor is a proactive approach to securing personal and professional data. By staying informed and vigilant, individuals and businesses can mitigate risks associated with data breaches and identity theft, ensuring a safer digital presence.