When most people think about cybersecurity, they imagine antivirus software or avoiding suspicious links. But one of the most overlooked dangers is the dark web—a hidden part of the internet where stolen personal and corporate data is traded anonymously. Many people assume they’re safe because they’re not celebrities or large businesses, but that assumption can be costly.
In this article, we’ll explore why dark web monitoring is essential for individuals and businesses alike, explain how the dark web works, and outline steps to take if your data is exposed.
What Is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the deep web that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines and requires special browsers like Tor to access. While there are legitimate uses—such as political activism under oppressive regimes—it’s most infamously known for illegal marketplaces selling stolen data, drugs, weapons, and hacking tools.
What Type of Information Is Sold?
Common data types found on the dark web include:
Social Security numbers
Credit card details
Email and password combinations
Health records
Corporate logins and source code
Real-World Risks
Even if you’re not a high-profile individual, your leaked data can still be exploited for:
Identity theft
Fraudulent credit applications
Unauthorized purchases
Business email compromise (BEC)
How Does Dark Web Monitoring Work?
Dark web monitoring tools continuously scan illicit forums, marketplaces, and paste sites for specific identifiers linked to your identity or business—such as your email addresses, passwords, SSNs, or domain names.
When a match is found, you’re notified and can take immediate action, such as changing passwords, freezing credit, or alerting stakeholders.
Benefits of BOA Dark Web Monitoring
BOA’s monitoring solution includes:
24/7 scanning of thousands of dark web sources
Immediate alerts for exposed data
Guidance on mitigation steps
Integration with password managers and identity protection services
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
The longer compromised data stays active on the dark web, the higher the risk of real-world consequences. Early detection is critical to minimize damage.
Conclusion
You don’t need to be a celebrity to have your data targeted on the dark web. From identity theft to corporate espionage, the risks are real—and growing. With BOA’s dark web monitoring service, you can take proactive control over your digital safety before criminals do.