DARK WEB MONITORING: WHAT IS IT?

A dark web monitoring service searches for signs that your personal information is being misused on the dark web.

Although the dark web has many legitimate uses, its anonymity also attracts people who buy and sell illegal goods and services – including stolen personal information.

Data breaches expose the personal information of millions of Americans each year. Dark web monitoring alerts you when your information is at risk, so you can take steps to protect yourself. Remember: for more tips on how to improve the quality of your life, visit www.credithealing.org.

How Does Dark Web Monitoring Work?

Dark web monitoring uses a process called “scraping,” which scans hundreds of chat rooms, websites, and peer-to-peer networks that deal with stolen personal data (PII) such as:

• Credit and debit card numbers
• Log-in information
• Medical identification numbers
• Social Security numbers (SSNs)
• Passport numbers
• Phone numbers.

Types of Identity Theft that Can Happen on the Dark Web

The following is a list of the most common types of identity theft that can occur when information is leaked.

Credit card fraud

The use of your credit card without your permission is called credit card fraud. The number, security code, and PIN of your credit card can still be used by a criminal even if the card is not physically present.

SSN identity theft

Criminals can use your SSN as a powerful asset, especially if they know other information about you. A thief with your SSN can take out loans, not pay the bills, and negatively impact your credit.

Tax identity theft

Criminals commit tax identity theft by filing a tax return in your name and receiving a refund using your sensitive information. It is possible to identify tax identity fraud when you file a tax return and discover that it has already been filed.

Protect Your Personal Information

Monitoring your identity on the dark web for your personal information is crucial. If your personal information is vulnerable, you can receive alerts, along with identity theft insurance and restoration assistance.

Is your personal information on the dark web? Make sure your identity isn’t at risk!