My Information is on the Dark Web! Now What?!

Discovering that your personal information is on the dark web can be alarming and distressing. If you are anything like me, you recently received a letter from everyone’s favorite ticket retailer – TicketMaster stating they had a breach and that your information was compromised. You may have also seen news around a breach that compromised all of our Social Security numbers via a company that performs background checks, but that did not have the proper controls in place to protect our data.

The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where cybercriminals often buy and sell stolen data, including Social Security numbers, credit card information, and other sensitive details. If you’ve received a notification or discovered through a monitoring service that your data has been compromised, it’s crucial to act quickly and decisively to protect yourself. This article will guide you through the steps you should take if you learn your personal information is on the dark web.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first step is to stay calm. Panicking won’t help, and it’s essential to approach the situation methodically. Begin by understanding what specific information has been compromised. Is it your Social Security number, credit card details, or something else? The nature of the data breach will determine your next steps.

2. Change Passwords Immediately

If your passwords have been compromised, change them immediately. Focus on updating passwords for your email accounts, online banking, and any other critical accounts. Use strong, unique passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Consider using a password manager to create and store these passwords securely. These include DashLane or LastPass to name couple.

3. Monitor Your Financial Accounts and Credit Reports

Regularly check your bank statements, credit card transactions, and credit reports for any unauthorized activity. Look for unfamiliar charges or accounts that you did not open. You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year.

If you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately to your financial institution.

4. Consider Freezing Your Credit

A credit freeze is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from identity theft. It prevents new creditors from accessing your credit report, making it difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. You can freeze your credit for free by contacting each of the three major credit bureaus.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Even if a cybercriminal has your password, they will also need the second factor—typically a code sent to your phone or generated by an app—to gain access. Enable 2FA on all accounts that offer it, particularly your email, banking, and social media accounts.

6. Notify Relevant Institutions that Your Info is on the Dark Web

If sensitive information like your Social Security number has been compromised, contact the relevant institutions. For instance, you can report identity theft to the Social Security Administration and the IRS. If your driver’s license number was exposed, contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

7. Consider Identity Theft Protection Services

Identity theft protection services can help monitor your personal information and alert you to any suspicious activity. Some services also offer identity restoration support if you become a victim of identity theft. While these services often come with a fee, they can provide peace of mind.

8. Stay Informed and Vigilant

Continue to monitor your accounts and personal information for any signs of misuse. Cybercriminals may not act immediately, so it’s important to remain vigilant. Regularly update your security practices, such as using strong passwords, enabling 2FA, and keeping your software up to date.

Learning that your personal information is on the dark web can be unsettling, but by taking immediate and proactive steps, you can mitigate the risks and protect yourself from further harm. Regular monitoring, updating your security measures, and staying informed about cybersecurity best practices are key to safeguarding your personal information.