Taking proactive steps to secure your digital assets is essential. A common, yet often overlooked threat is the exposure of sensitive information on the dark web. But what exactly does this mean, and how can it impact your organization?Industries like healthcare, finance, and education are highly vulnerable to credential compromise due to the sensitive data they handle like social security numbers. Their interactions with various stakeholders increase attack surfaces, while sectors like technology and manufacturing face added risks from proprietary technology theft.
How Credentials are Compromised
- Phishing Scams: Malicious emails disguised as legitimate communications trick employees into revealing credentials or downloading malware.
- Watering Hole Attacks: Hackers inject malicious code into frequently visited websites, stealing credentials when employees visit.
- Malvertising: Legitimate-looking ads can contain malware that infects systems, leading to data theft.
- Web Attacks: Vulnerabilities in web applications and internet-facing assets can be exploited to gain unauthorized access.
The Risks of Compromised Credentials & Personal Identifiable Information (PII)
The consequences of stolen credentials are extensive:
- Unauthorized Access: Attackers can infiltrate sensitive company data, leading to data breaches.
- Identity Theft: Personal information can be used for fraudulent activities.
- Financial Loss: The theft can result in direct financial losses or high costs associated with breach mitigation.
With 39% of U.S. adults reusing passwords across multiple accounts, cybercriminals can easily exploit this behavior to access various services.
How to Protect Your Business
Regularly checking for compromised credentials is crucial for several reasons. Early detection of compromised credentials allows you to take immediate action to secure affected accounts and prevent unauthorized access. Knowing which credentials have been compromised helps mitigate risks by updating passwords, implementing stronger security measures, and monitoring affected accounts for suspicious activity. Additionally, many regulations require businesses to protect sensitive information, and regularly scanning for compromised credentials helps ensure compliance with these standards.
Proactive measures are essential in defending against these threats. Start by implementing robust security practices, such as multi-factor authentication, regular system updates, and thorough employee training. Strengthen your defenses further by using complex, unique passwords for each account. For detailed tips on creating secure passwords, explore our guide on The Art of the Uncrackable Password. Additionally, regular monitoring for exposed credentials is vital for early detection and prevention.
Are your business's credentials already exposed on the dark web? Find out with a complimentary, comprehensive Dark Web Scan. This scan can identify compromised information and help you take action to secure your digital footprint.
What we deliver:
Comprehensive Monitoring: We scan the dark web for stolen credentials, personal information, and financial data specific to your domain.
Detailed Reports: Receive a thorough report detailing any compromised data from your domain or from other partners/customers, along with actionable insights to mitigate risks.