Top 5 Tips to Avoid Data Being Leaked to The Dark Web for End Users

Introduction

The dark web is a sub-internet that is not visible and accessible via the regular internet. It can be accessed using Tor and other similar software. The term dark web refers to the hidden, anonymous parts of the internet which are not indexed by Google or other search engines. The fascinating thing about the darknet is that it houses countless cybercrime websites and marketplaces for everything from drugs, weapons, and counterfeit products to stolen credit cards, hacking tools, and personal information.

Data leaks are common issues on the internet, affecting many companies and online platforms. The data leaks to the dark web have resulted in undesirable consequences, such as personal information being accessed without consent or damage to the reputation of a company or organization. As it is easy to get data on the dark web from various means, you should be conscious about what you share and store online. To avoid your data being leaked to the dark web, here are the top 5 tips to follow.

Tip 1: Use Strong Passwords

The best way to secure your personal information is through strong passwords. Using a password that is longer than eight characters and uses various symbols, numbers, and uppercase letters is important. You should avoid personal data such as birthdates or family names in your passwords for security purposes. Another useful tip is to change your passwords regularly and never share them with anybody else.

Tip 2: Use Strong Firewalls and Internet Security Systems

In addition to using strong passwords, you may also want to consider using a good internet security system or software. Your firewall must be sophisticated enough to block any attempts at hacking into your device and your network.

Tip 3: Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

For businesses, it is highly recommended to enable authentication for all corporate devices. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is the most effective way of ensuring that only authorized individuals gain access to critical information stored on your devices. MFA can be implemented in various forms, such as through an application or text or voice messages sent to a user’s phone number.

Tip 4: Avoid Phishing Emails and Scams 

Phishing emails are a common method employed by cybercriminals to trick their victims into giving away or clicking on malicious links. They do this by sending emails resembling legitimate business requests or notifications to the victims, who are then directed to sites that begin with “HTTPS” but are, in fact, fake, which collect information and share it with third parties. These emails may also contain viruses and malware designed to steal passwords.

It is crucial to be wary of any emails or messages that include attachments, links, or requests for personal information. It is best not to open unfamiliar links, even from people you know. To stay safe from these kinds of scams and attacks, you should always update your security software and run regular system scans to ensure your device is free from malware or other harmful programs.

Tip 5: Be Careful with Your Online Share and Keep Your Accounts Secure

Even if you update your passwords often, keep your internet security software up to date, and use a reliable firewall, you may still be at risk of having your data leaked or stolen. Be sure not to click on unfamiliar links or respond to messages from people you don’t know. If possible, avoid using unsecured public computers or devices with no anti-virus or firewall protection installed.

Conclusion

It is important to understand that the dark web is a place for criminals and cybercriminals to operate, so you should know what they are doing there. To avoid unwanted leaks to the dark web, you should also be highly vigilant about what you share online and what you store on your devices. With the above tips, you can take steps to help protect your privacy and avoid having your data accessed and distributed on the dark web. And don’t become a victim of a data leak yourself. It can probably never be prevented completely. That’s why it’s even more important to keep an eye on the Darknet and Deepweb with our Darknet Monitoring Service.