By Dave Bell
The term "Dark Web" may sound like it's taken from a plot line in the latest made-for-TV crime drama, but unfortunately it isn't so innocuous. The Dark Web really does exist. Here's what you should know about it.
What is the Dark Web?
Not to be confused with the "Deep Web," the Dark Web is an area of the World Wide Web that isn't indexed by search engines. It can only be accessed with certain anonymizing Web browsers or software. Unlike the public Web we all know and love, cookies don't exist in the Dark Web; its users operate in total anonymity. Because of this, criminals often use it as a marketplace for buying and selling stolen information (among other illegal activities, of course).
Is your company's information for sale on the Dark Web?
Every business—regardless of its size or stature—could be a target. Any personally identifiable information (PII), such as phone numbers, addresses, Social Security numbers, and bank account credentials, can be highly valuable to a cybercriminal. If your information isn't secure, it's low-hanging fruit for hackers. And if they succeed, it's likely to end up on the Dark Web—without you ever knowing it.
How could the Dark Web impact your business?
Say a hacker does obtain your company's data. This could happen if you or one of your employees inadvertently responds to a phishing email or enters information into a fraudulent website, potentially giving the hacker access to anything from personal email credentials to your clients' names and addresses. Armed with this data, the hacker could easily exploit you or your business.
What can you do to keep your information off of the Dark Web?
There are several things you can do to protect your business. First, avoid "out-of-sight, out-of-mind" thinking. Instead, be proactive. Consider running a Dark Web Breach Assessment to see if any of your company's email accounts have already been involved in a breach. This can also help you identify employees who may be putting your business at risk. Another wise move is to provide consistent security training for your employees. This can empower your employees to quickly recognize phishing and other cybercriminal behaviors so they don't become a target.
Navigate the dangers of the Dark Web with a cybersecurity expert.
If you're unsure of where to start, we can help. In addition to a Dark Web Breach Assessment and security training, we can continuously monitor the Dark Web and alert you if your information were to show up in the future. Covering all of your bases can help to keep your information out of the Dark Web—and prevent your business from inspiring next season's sensational plot line.
