The dark web is as nefarious as it sounds. It’s a place rife with seedy characters who put a hefty price tag on confidential information. The dark web is a hotbed for criminal activity and a popular hangout spot for cybercriminals. While many people have heard of the dark web and its notorious reputation, a lot of you might not know exactly what it is and what goes on there.
First and foremost, the dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t cataloged by regular search engines. It exists on darknets overlay networks and requires particular software, configurations, or authorization to access. It forms a small section of the deep web. A 2015 study found that 57% of dark web websites hosted illicit material.
While it isn’t used entirely for crime, it is linked synonymously with criminal activities of all kinds. From selling drugs and weapons, to credit card details and bank information, it is a popular place to carry out illegal dealings.
Unfortunately, your personal or business information can also end up on the dark web. A major breach of your data security could lead to the loss of money and confidential information.
How Does Your Data End Up On the Dark Web?
Your data generally ends up on the dark web because of a network security breach or data compromise. Hackers can intentionally target your network, or you may fall victim to a virus, scam, or exploit. Some of the most common tools that put your data at risk include malware, DDoS, botnets, trojans, espionage, and phishing.
What Happens With Your Data When It Goes On the Dark Web?
When data is compromised, it is usually used for one of five purposes.
- Devaluing a company.
- Disrupting a company’s regular operations.
- Defrauding an organization.
- Data auctions.
- File and data exchanges.
There is no set value for data. Depending on the information, the data could be worth any amount. Personal information is typically lower in value than company data.
What Type of Data are Cybercriminals After?
When it comes to business, hackers are seeking out the most valuable data or potentially damaging information that a company has. Some of the main targets include:
- Account log-in details for e-mail, banking, and other important apps.
- Network access information.
- Employee and HR information.
- Customer data (including bank account details).
- Information on IT or network vulnerabilities for future hacking opportunities.
How Do You Know If Your Company Data Has Been Published On the Dark Web?
The most effective way to find out if your company data has been breached and published on the dark web is to have a dark web scan performed. The best scanning technology can usually detect whether or not your network, emails, or other log-ins have been compromised.
Due to the complex nature of the dark web, it’s recommended that you have a managed IT services team, such as Emerge, continuously monitor your breach defense system to ensure the best possible security.
How to Protect Your Business
Unfortunately, when your data ends up on the dark web, it’s virtually impossible to remove it. Your best course of action is to hire a quality IT team, install preventative and protective software, and to perform regular scans. Follow strict security protocols and train your staff to be extra vigilant.
Beware of vulnerable areas and look to endpoint security and application security as well as the standard areas. Take responsibility for the safety of your data. Take control and preventative measures with managed services from Emerge, call us today at 859-746-1030 to get started.