The dark web can be home to an egregious amount of unknown information, but what do you do if your information makes its way onto the site? We have got the 411 on the dark web with our expert tips and tricks. Keep reading for all you need to know on how to remove your information from the dark web.
Identifying if Your Information is on the Dark Web
To begin with, you must understand that the dark web is inexplicably vast, and finding your stolen data from various compromised websites may seem like finding a needle in a haystack. The good news is that specialized tools called “dark web scanners” can ease the burden. They scan the dark web and help you detect if your data is on sale on the various black marketplaces.
But how does your information get there in the first place? Studies show that data can end up on the dark web due to using public Wi-Fi, visiting a site that isn’t secure and leaving a paper trail, and data breaches. That is why using a VPN is essential to keep your information safe.
Can You Remove Your Information from the Dark Web?
Once your information is out there, removing it can be almost impossible. When your information lands on the dark web, it is beyond your control, and you cannot just ask the seller to take it down. Even if your information was removed, there is no 100 percent guarantee that someone else had not already bought or copied and pasted it. The best you can do is to take a proactive approach to prevent further damage by reducing the exposure of compromised information.
How To Remove Info from Dark Web?
Firstly, you must identify the type of information that has been stolen. If it is a password or a credit card number, change your password immediately and report the issue to your credit card provider. Additionally, enable alerts that will notify you when there is any activity on your credit card account.
Secondly, if it is your personal identifying information, you can register a complaint at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Department. The FTC will provide details on how to act based on your complaints. If you feel the case is too complicated, consult a financial professional or a cybersecurity expert. If any identifying information was compromised, we also suggest freezing your three credit reports through Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.
Moreover, if your information appears on a website, the administrator must be contacted, and they will remove the data. Google and Bing have a “content removal request” tool that can remove website content from their search engines. Finally, take the necessary steps to secure your accounts and ensure that you follow password creation best practices.
Conclusion
Nowadays, data breaches and information leaked to the dark web are becoming increasingly common, so taking preventive measures is crucial. Hopefully, after reading this post, you have understood how the dark web works and how to remove your information from the dark web successfully. Always remember that prevention is the best weapon against these criminals.
So, take steps to protect your information beforehand, and if it is already out there, seek help immediately to recover as much as you can. Use the numerous resources available online to protect yourself. If you are unsure or have further questions, always consult with experts in the field like us, Digital Investigation. Stay secure, everyone!
