Dark Web
What is the dark web?
The dark web is a hidden network you cannot find using regular search engines. Cybercriminals use the dark web to conduct malicious transactions, such as buying and selling stolen credit card numbers, personal information, and passwords; so, criminals are using the dark web as an online black market for illegal activities like selling stolen information.
To access the dark web, criminals use special browsers supported by many levels of encryption to hide their identities and activities.
What kind of data is offered for sale on the dark web?
Cybercriminals frequently use the dark web to carry out various unlawful activities. Some of the most common data bought and sold on the dark web includes:
- Credit and debit card details
- Personal information, like your name, national ID, or phone number
- Online banking account passwords
- Medical records
How does personal information end up on the dark web?
Cybercriminals use a range of methods to steal sensitive information from individuals. The most common techniques include social engineering and malware. The criminals use email phishing, SMS phishing, and phone-based phishing to trick you into providing personal details or install malware on your mobile device or computer to steal your sensitive information such as passwords. Once stolen, cybercriminals offer this information for sale on the dark web.
How do we protect you?
INVESTBANK uses advanced threat intelligence capabilities to monitor the dark web for login credentials and passwords, credit and debit card numbers, and bank account numbers. We search sites, hacking forums, marketplaces, and more to detect any personal or financial information that may belong to our clients that is being offered for sale on the dark web. If we detect financial data belonging to any of our clients available on the dark web, we take immediate action to protect our clients and alert them about such incidents. We aim to safeguard our clients’ valuable data and prevent any unauthorized access or misuse.
How to protect your information from the dark web?
Here are some steps you can take to help prevent hackers from accessing your information and sharing it online:
- It's important to be cautious when browsing websites and downloading software onto your devices.
- Do not share sensitive information with others. Criminals may attempt to steal sensitive data by contacting you via phone or social media.
- Create strong and unique passwords for your online accounts.
- If you suspect any unusual activity, it is recommended to change your password immediately.
- Report any suspicious activities to the contact center.
What can I do if my information is found on the dark web?
It is important to stay alert and take necessary precautions to protect your information. If you suspect that your data has been stolen or is being sold on the dark web, you can take the following steps:
- Stop your credit or debit card immediately.
- Change your account’s password.
- Frequently review your account and card statements for suspicious activities.
- Report any suspicious cases to the contact center.
