All About the Dark Web
The dark web is a network of websites that is hidden from everyday search engines like Google. They require a special web browser to access them, and allow users to mask their IP addresses. The dark web’s privacy, anonymity, and lack of guidelines make it the ideal place to commit crimes such as identity theft. If someone has managed to steal your private information, they may try to sell it on the dark web to someone who wants to use it to commit fraud. QuickProtect’s dark web monitoring will help keep your sensitive information safe from those with malicious intent.
How Does Dark Web Monitoring Work?
QuickProtect’s Dark Web Monitoring services scan hundreds of thousands of websites each day, looking for any personal information that criminals can use to steal your identity. Such information can include:
- Social Insurance Number(s) (SINs)
- Email address(es)
- Passport number(s)
- Medical Identification numbers
- Bank account numbers
- Phone numbers
- Driver’s license number(s)
- Credit/debit card numbers
- Retail/membership cards
Tips to Protect Your Information from the Dark Web
It’s very common to use passwords you already know or create new ones from aspects of your life, but that can leave you open to cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Instead, consider using a password manager to help you set and keep track of your passwords for each website you use.
Make sure the site you’re using is secure. Most sites have a padlock icon in the web browser bar to let you know that site is safe to use. You can also use a virtual private network (VPN) to protect yourself from possible eavesdropping in public networks, such as at a coffee shop or an airport.
Preventing criminals from accessing your information can be achieved by signing up for e-statements so they can’t steal your from your doorstep, password-protecting your mobile devices, keeping your SIN and password locked in a safe or lockbox, and avoiding leaving your wallet or purse unattended (even if it’s just in your vehicle).
