What is dark web monitoring, and how does it work?

The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where stolen information can be found, and illegal activity thrives. So, protecting sensitive information from being exposed in this environment is necessary. Dark web monitoring solutions scan the dark web for stolen information and alert businesses when their confidential data is compromised so they can respond quickly. In this article, we’ll explore what dark web monitoring is, how it works, and why it’s a valuable investment for companies.

What is dark web monitoring?

Dark web monitoring is a form of threat intelligence that involves continuously scanning the dark web, a part of the internet not accessible by normal means, for any stolen or leaked information related to you or your business. This service looks through dark web sites, forums, and marketplaces for the organization’s information like stolen credentials, intellectual property, or confidential documents.

The dark web, sometimes called the dark net, is a hidden network of websites. Unlike the surface web (regular internet), which can be indexed and accessed through regular search engines, the dark net can’t be reached by these search tools. You can only access it through special browsers, like Tor, an open-source network browser, which enables users to remain anonymous by masking their IP addresses and online activities. This environment poses a serious risk for businesses because their sensitive data can be traded or sold without their knowledge.

How does dark web monitoring work?

Dark web monitoring works by employing specialized tools — dark web scanners — to monitor various sources across the dark and deep web. These tools are programmed to continuously search for any mentions of compromised data associated with your business. They use predefined keywords, phrases, and patterns to identify any references to your company, partners, or industry on the dark web.

Each day, dark web monitoring tools sift through thousands of hidden websites, forums, and marketplaces looking for relevant information. This information can include:

• Online and bank account login credentials — compromised passwords, usernames, and answers to security questions for any employee or organizational accounts.
• Corporate email addresses and other personal contacts.
• Intellectual property — trade secrets, proprietary information.
• Client and partner information.
• Financial records — bank account details, credit card numbers, credit reports.
• API keys and access tokens.
• Business contracts and legal documents.
• Employee records — personally identifiable information, payroll information.
• Communication details — emails, chat logs, call histories.
• Business strategies or plans.

Once any of these sensitive details are detected and flagged, you receive an alert that allows you to take necessary immediate actions, which can include changing compromised online account details or implementing stricter security measures before any damage is done.

However, it’s important to remember that a dark web monitoring solution can’t remove your information from the dark net. Their primary function is to alert you when they find instances of your sensitive data so you can take appropriate action. While continuous monitoring of information on the dark net is a proactive step in protecting your information, it should be part of a broader cybersecurity strategy that includes strong cybersecurity practices, employee training, and incident response plans.

Is it legal to use dark web monitoring?

Using dark web monitoring solutions is completely legal. These services help organizations identify data leaks and prevent them from escalating into major security incidents.

However, if you're considering using a dark web monitoring service for your organization or personal use, reviewing the provider’s privacy policy and terms of use is a good idea. Doing so will help you understand how they operate and protect your information. Ensure that your chosen service complies with all relevant laws and regulations.

What are the benefits of dark web monitoring for businesses?

Dark web monitoring provides many benefits for businesses. It helps them protect their sensitive information, maintain a good public image, and can even save them from financial loss:

• It warns about potential threats. By continuously screening for exposed information, you can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and address potential risks before they escalate into critical incidents.
• It protects the company's reputation. By quickly detecting and responding to data leaks, you can maintain trust with customers and partners, improve your brand’s credibility, and maintain a good public image.
• It protects the employee and client information. Continuous dark web surveillance ensures that any compromised employee or client information is flagged early. This way, you can prevent criminals from exploiting this stolen information.
• It improves cybersecurity strategy. By monitoring past vulnerabilities, your security team can gain more accurate insights into how criminals exploited them, leading to a better understanding of potential threats. This knowledge allows you to have a faster incident response and strengthen your entire security stack. With improved threat intelligence, you can take proactive measures to prevent future attacks.
• It saves costs. By identifying and addressing threats early, you can reduce the financial impact of legal fees, reputational damage, and recovery costs, ultimately saving your business money in the long run.

What are the limitations of dark web monitoring?

While dark web monitoring is a valuable tool for businesses, it does have its limitations:

• It can’t remove leaked information. A dark web monitoring tool can alert you about compromised data, but it can’t remove that information once it’s been posted on the dark net. The primary benefit of tracking information on the dark web is early detection, which allows you to take steps to minimize damage.
• It won’t stop cyberattacks. Monitoring alone can’t protect businesses from actual cyberattacks, such as data breaches where sensitive information is leaked or stolen. It is a preventative measure that helps you identify compromised information before malicious actors can exploit it.

Despite these limitations, the benefits of these services alone make dark web monitoring worth the cost. By being aware of possible threats and acting quickly to address them, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and improve their cybersecurity strategies.

How can information get on the dark web?

Business and personal information can end up on the dark web through various means, often as a result of cybercriminal activity:

• A data breach. When an organization experiences a data breach, compromised credentials, and other sensitive data can be stolen and then shared on dark web forums and marketplaces to be sold.
• Phishing attack. Malicious actors often use phishing tactics to trick individuals into providing personal information. They can later sell the data collected in a phishing attack to other criminals who may use it for identity theft, financial fraud, or launching further phishing schemes.
• Hacking and malware. Malicious software can infiltrate systems to harvest personal and business information.
• Insider threats. In some cases, employees with access to confidential information may intentionally or unintentionally leak it, which can then be sold on dark web platforms.

What should you look for when choosing a dark web monitoring service?

When selecting a dark web monitoring service, you should consider several factors to ensure you choose a solution that meets your needs:

• Wide coverage. Look for a service that scans a variety of dark and deep web sources, including marketplaces, forums, and chat rooms, to maximize the chances of detecting compromised information.
• Real-time monitoring and alerts. A good monitoring service should offer continuous monitoring and send alerts as soon as they detect your information on the dark and deep web. This way, you can take immediate action.
• Tailored solutions. Look for the ability to customize alerts based on your company’s keywords or phrases for relevant, focused results.
• Actionable alerts. Dark web alerts should provide clear steps on how to respond to detected threats.
• Additional security features. It would be a great benefit if the company offered additional features to protect against various cyber threats.

NordStellar’s dark web monitoring service encompasses all these essential features. It monitors thousands of cybercrime communities in real-time, informing you about threats targeting your company. This solution specifically tracks keywords associated with your business across dark web forums, deep web search engines, illicit markets, hacking communities, and other sources.

By identifying a data leak related to your company early on, NordStellar helps prevent these issues from escalating into major security incidents. In addition to dark web monitoring, our services include data breach monitoring and account takeover prevention, which add an extra layer of protection for your organization.

FAQ

How can you know if your information is on the dark web?

The best and fastest way to determine if your information is on the dark net is to use dark web monitoring. These tools continuously scan various dark and deep web sites and alert you if your personal or business information is detected. Using them allows you to take action quickly to mitigate any potential risks.

Is dark web monitoring safe?

Dark web monitoring is completely safe. These tools look for information publicly available on the dark web to warn you about possible threats. Just be sure to choose a trusted provider that employs secure methods to handle your information and complies with industry regulations.

What are the features of dark web monitoring?

Dark web monitoring typically includes real-time alerts, regular scanning of dark web forums, search engines, and marketplaces, and the ability to search for specific information like email addresses or credit card information. Additionally, many services provide information about the threats found and how to protect yourself.

Are there free dark web monitoring services?

While free solutions are available, it is generally recommended that you refrain from using them. Free services often lack broad coverage and may need to provide timely alerts or strong data protection measures. Using a free service from a non-reputable source may end up costing you more in the long run if your data is compromised and you have to pay for the resulting threat. Investing in a reputable paid service is usually better for effective monitoring and protection.

Who should use dark web monitoring services?

Dark web monitoring can benefit everyone, but it is especially beneficial for businesses of all sizes. Companies most vulnerable to cyberattacks include financial institutions, healthcare providers, and e-commerce platforms. However, dark web monitoring can also help individuals worried about identity theft.

How can you prevent information exposure on the dark web?

Dark web monitoring alone can't fully protect your business from data exposure. To reduce the risk of a data breach, implement strong cybersecurity measures, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly updating all software. Utilize a password manager to help employees keep track of passwords to organizational accounts. Also establish effective identity management practices to ensure that only necessary employees can access sensitive data. Educate employees about phishing attacks and safe online practices.