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Please enjoy this edition of the Family Survival Evening Post, a completely free comprehensive survival and preparedness publication sent to give you the knowledge and skills you'll need to be always safe and secure no matter what happens.
You may have heard the term “dark web,” but it can sometimes be difficult to understand what it really is and what it can mean to you.
The dark web isn’t an actual place, but rather a hidden network of websites. While it requires special resources, it’s just a matter of steps and getting certain systems set up that provide a way in for those looking to join the dark web and keep information such as their IP address hidden.
Because of its hidden nature and the using special applications to maintain anonymity, it’s not surprising the dark web can be a haven for all kinds of illicit activity (including the trafficking of stolen personal information captured through means such as data breaches or hacks). This means if you’ve ever been a victim of a data breach, it’s a place where your sensitive information might live.
Data breaches in the United States during 2016 hit an all-time high of 1,093, which represents a 40% increase over the previous year.
Once exposed, this information that can change hands again and again over time—especially if it’s a valuable combination of information (like medical information, a Social Security number, or an identifying address with account information) that’s attractive to those looking to acquire stolen data.
On the dark web, people looking for this information can get access to records that live online and are often available inexpensively—such as bundles going for less than $10 per record. These bundles are often called ‘Fullz’ because they include the full package for fraudsters: name, SSN, birth date, account numbers, and other data that make them desirable since they’re rich enough to do immediate damage.
Savvy cyber-thieves also may wait some time before using the data they buy, because immediately following a breach, many people are more guarded and on the lookout for red flags on accounts, bills and their credit report.
Unfortunately, there are entire communities in the dark web and even sites the provide reviews on identity thieves that indicate if someone is “good to do business with”—meaning their data is valuable (think of it as the Yelp reviews for criminals). These criminals can make a decent living by selling, buying and using personal information.
People often aren’t worried about the dark web until something like a data breach happens and they’re notified their information was stolen. There’s no fail-proof way to keep your information off the dark web because hackers are always trying the latest new thing to get your information and sell it to those looking to pay for it, but you can be vigilant about looking for red flags that your identity is in someone else’s hands, including:
Monitor your accounts and statements for any information that looks off.
Check your credit report regularly to see if inquiries or new accounts appear that you don’t recognize.
Use strong passwords, and change them often.
Consider an online product to help you protect your identity and monitor your credit.
Know how to respond immediately to suspicious activity.
By staying on top of potential issues, you can help minimize the impact if your personal information does fall into the wrong hands.
Always Safe, Always Prepared
Frank Mitchell
Founder |
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