Dark web monitoring has become a key feature of modern identity theft protection services. But what exactly is the dark web, and how does monitoring it help protect your personal information?
What Is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that isn't indexed by standard search engines. It requires special software to access and is often used for anonymous communication—both legitimate and illegal.
Unfortunately, the dark web has become a marketplace where criminals buy and sell stolen personal information, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Credit card numbers
- Bank account credentials
- Login credentials for various accounts
- Medical records
- Driver's license information
How Dark Web Monitoring Works
Dark web monitoring services scan dark web marketplaces, forums, and data dumps for your personal information. When your data is found, you receive an alert so you can take action.
Services like IdentityIQ include dark web monitoring as part of their identity protection package.
What to Do If Your Information Is Found
- Change passwords for affected accounts immediately
- Enable two-factor authentication where available
- Monitor your credit reports for suspicious activity
- Consider a credit freeze if sensitive data was exposed
- Alert your financial institutions if banking info was compromised
Get Dark Web Monitoring
Compare identity protection services with dark web monitoring features.