Of these, the dark web is infamous for criminal activities, from buying illegal substances to hiring a hitman and everything in between. The first section is what we would call the public web or clear web – essentially all information that is publicly available to an average user. The second is the deep web which comprises all information hidden behind a login wall and not indexed by a search engine. This comprises the vast majority of the internet (Facebook being a prime example).

Credential theft, data leakages, and unauthorized access create business risks with brand reputation loss, regulatory penalties, litigation, business interruptions, loss of consumer faith, and mitigations. Following a phishing attack or exploit, critical data such as credentials can get leaked and used for credential stuffing, identity fraud, illegal access, and other attacks. Track key forensic evidence such as leaked credentials, cybercriminal activity, and second stage ransomware attacks by gaining access to external threat intelligence. A Dark Web monitoring service helps any organisation that is responsible for securing sensitive customer data, owns valuable intellectual property, or could be a target for any kind of criminal cyber activity such as identity theft. Keyloggers, a specific type of malware, record keystrokes and capture sensitive information like login credentials.

Newly identified vulnerabilities or exploits represent significant opportunities for threat actors, and these attack methods are discussed, developed, and sold in dark web forums and underground marketplaces. Because free Dark Web scanners are one-time services, they simply aren’t enough to keep you safe. Dark web monitoring is a critical component of any comprehensive cybersecurity how much do drugs cost on the dark web strategy, but with the constantly evolving nature of the dark web, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Mandiant specializes in cyber threat intelligence, offering products, services, and more to support our mission to defend against cyber crime. Since the dark web is constantly changing, no one can guarantee to monitor 100% of the dark web and private forums.

How Does IDStrong’s Dark Web Monitoring Services Work?

As the dark web evolves, new threats emerge, originating from open, deep, and dark web sources, including ToR, I2P sites, IRC and Telegram channels, criminal forums and marketplaces, paste sites and more. Nailing down who exactly has what company, employee, or customer data can be impossible. Undetected dark web exchanges and attack planning can quickly become serious threats to targeted enterprises and executives. Left ignored, threat actors can use dark web resources to cause irreversible brand damage, physical harm, and execute crippling account takeovers.

Monitoring the Dark Web: What You Need to Know

The dark web is a secret, heavily encrypted part of the internet that attracts those who prize anonymity above all else, including criminals and hackers. Dark web pages are cut off from search engines like Google and Bing, meaning that most people aren’t even aware of their existence. Dark web monitoring services offer several benefits that are essential for any business looking to protect its data. A compromised credential refers to login credentials, such as usernames and passwords, that have been stolen or obtained by an unauthorised person or entity.

Our expert security research team has visibility into criminal communities and underground marketplaces where stolen data is traded and sold. Other business segments like retail or pharma are more susceptible to nontraditional attacks like brand spoofing in the form of fake domains or phishing attacks, according to Schneider. In his view digital footprint monitoring is a particularly valuable tool and will often include a dark web component. Further, takedown services are a natural step beyond digital footprint monitoring. In general, individual businesses won’t have the required contacts with internet services providers, cloud hosting platforms, and even law enforcement, to effect takedowns on their own.

What Are Dark Web Monitoring Tools?

The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen data. As a result, monitoring the dark web has become an important task for law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity professionals, and businesses looking to protect their sensitive information.

• If you already have the internal resources to integrate intelligence into security technologies like SIEM and EDR, your requirements can be supported through custom data feeds.
• The dark web is a haven for criminals who seek to exploit vulnerabilities and steal sensitive information from unsuspecting victims.
• IntSights gives us an understanding if threat intelligence alerts are relevant to us and if actionable can be transferred to other departments and stakeholders in the company.
• Keeper is a cybersecurity company that offers advanced monitoring and alerting services to help organizations detect and mitigate data breaches and password-related risks.
• Monitoring of the darknet occurs in real time, with constant searches pulling raw intelligence.

What is the Dark Web?

The dark web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines and can only be accessed using special software, such as the Tor browser. It is often used for illegal activities because of its anonymity and lack of regulation. However, it is also used by political dissidents, whistleblowers, and others who need to communicate securely and privately.

Why Monitor the Dark Web?

Monitoring the dark web can help organizations and individuals in several ways. For law enforcement agencies, it can provide valuable intelligence on criminal activities and help in the investigation and prosecution of criminals. For businesses, it can help protect against data breaches and the sale of stolen intellectual property. And for individuals, it can help protect against identity theft and other forms of cybercrime.

Keep An Eye Out For Physical Threats And Terrorist Threats

How to Monitor the Dark Web

Monitoring the dark web can be challenging because of its anonymity and lack of regulation. However, there are several ways to do it:

• Use dark web search engines: There are several search engines, such as Ahmia and Torch, that can be used to search the dark web. These search engines can help you find websites and forums that are relevant to your interests.
• Use dark web monitoring services: There are several companies that offer dark web monitoring services. These services can help you monitor the dark web for specific keywords, such as your company name or personal information.
• Use social media: Social media platforms, such as Twitter and Reddit, can be used to monitor the dark web. Many dark web users discuss their activities on these platforms, making it easier to track them.

FAQs

What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?

The deep web refers to all the parts of the internet that are not indexed by search engines. The dark web is how to acces dark web a subset of the deep web that is intentionally hidden and can only be accessed using special software.

Is it illegal to access the dark web?

No, it is not illegal to access the dark web. However, many activities that take place on the dark web are illegal, such as the sale of drugs and weapons. It is important to use the dark web responsibly and to avoid engaging in illegal activities.

Can the dark web be shut down?

No, the dark web cannot be shut down because it is decentralized and operates on a peer-to-peer network. However, law dark market onion enforcement agencies can take action against individual websites and forums that are used for illegal activities.

How can I protect myself when accessing the dark web?

When accessing the dark web, it is important to use a virtual private network (VPN) and to avoid sharing personal information. It is also important to use a reputable dark web browser, such as the Tor browser, and to keep it up to date.