The dark web, a difficult-to-access segment of the internet, operates beyond the reach of traditional search engines and can only be accessed through specialized browsers like Tor. It serves as a platform for illicit activities like the sale of stolen credentials, as it offers complete anonymity. Needless to say, accessing the dark web presents significant risks, including exposure to scams, fraudulent transactions, and harmful content.
What are the benefits of dark web monitoring?
Most internet users will never set foot in the dark web, so why is monitoring it so important? Regularly checking the dark web lends you some visibility into the activities that cybercriminals conduct, and you can use this information to beef up your security system in anticipation of an attack. Below are the key reasons why you should monitor the dark web:
Early detection and tracking of threats
Early detection of data breaches is one of the primary benefits of proactive dark web monitoring. By gaining real-time visibility into the availability of sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card details, or employee data on the dark web, organizations can swiftly implement mitigation strategies to minimize damage.
Consider a scenario where a customer database is compromised and offered for sale on a dark web marketplace. With early detection through dark web monitoring, organizations can take decisive actions, including alerting affected customers, changing compromised credentials, and implementing additional security measures.
Understanding the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) of threat actors is equally essential. By tracking their behavior and communication on dark web forums, companies can anticipate potential attacks and develop targeted defense strategies. For instance, identifying a group of hackers discussing vulnerabilities specific to your industry allows you to proactively address those weaknesses and strengthen your defenses, reducing your organization’s exposure to cyberthreats.
Identification of compromised login credentials
Threat actors often leverage compromised credentials to infiltrate company systems, steal sensitive data, and perpetrate fraudulent activities. By employing dark web monitoring tools, organizations can proactively track their login credentials on the dark web, enabling timely password resets and account security measures.
For instance, imagine employee login credentials are discovered for sale on a dark web forum. Through dark web monitoring, organizations can identify this threat and respond swiftly by enforcing a company-wide password reset and implementing multifactor authentication to bolster account security.
Better threat intelligence
By providing insights into emerging threats and trends, security teams are empowered to stay informed about the evolving TTPs employed by cybercriminals. Continuous monitoring, for example, might reveal heightened discussions about a new malware targeting specific industries. This early warning enables organizations to update their security measures and educate employees, reducing their vulnerability to the threat.
How can we implement dark web monitoring at my business?
Dark web monitoring is a complex task, but implementing a monitoring system is easier than it seems. Here’s what you should do:
1. Partner with an IT security provider
An IT security provider with extensive experience in monitoring dark web activities is your best shot at protecting your business from threats that reside in the dark web. Before signing up with any provider, ask them which tools and protocols they will deploy to monitor the dark web for you, especially those for finding out whether any of your intellectual property has been compromised. A good security partner should be able to give you specific actions and response time frames in the event that any of your assets are spotted on the dark web, and they should be able to assist in training your internal IT team to respond to threats.
2. Train your IT security team
Your internal IT team is integral to the monitoring system you will implement, as they will help ensure that your security partner is able to adequately perform their roles. Your IT team holds the key to granting your security partner sufficient access to the resources they need while also ensuring that your organization’s interests are protected at all times.
Dark web monitoring is vital in any organization’s defense against cyberthreats. By proactively tracking your company’s sensitive data on the dark web, you can gain valuable insights into emerging threats, identify compromised credentials, and protect your intellectual property. And by incorporating dark web monitoring into your cybersecurity strategy, you can enhance your organization’s resilience and safeguard against the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime.
Need help monitoring and protecting your business from dark web threats? Partner with Refresh Technologies for a complete security solution. Contact us today for a quote.