How To Use LastPass For Dark Web Monitoring
Understanding the Need to Monitor Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the Internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen data. However, it also contains forums, websites, and services that can pose threats to individuals and organizations.
In fact, it’s a popular tool for whistleblowers and people living in countries with restricted internet access. However, that hasn’t stopped tech-savvy criminals from figuring out how to exploit the system for their own gains. The dark web, on the other hand, is the small sliver of the deep web that consists of encrypted sites. Common web browsers like Google Chrome and Safari can’t access dark web sites, so visitors need a specialized browser like Tor. The Tor browser masks the user’s IP address, which protects them from being traced and identified. Even if you don’t have dark web monitoring, if there is reason to believe that your personal information has been stolen, you should assume that it can end up for sale on the dark web.
Instead, they often make their ill-gotten information available for sale on the dark web, where it is usually exchanged for large amounts of money in the form of cryptocurrencies. Proactively monitor data from users on your domain and automatically remediate breached and malware-compromised passwords in Active Directory – including where Okta is the identity broker. Our security researchers gain access to the same data the fraudsters are using to target your business and your customers. Through our proprietary technology and tradecraft, we surface this “recaptured data” – including credentials, PII, credit card numbers, bank account info and more – before it is used to cause harm. Dark Web Monitoring clients can get access to your Unlimited Training Program. With this security awareness training course, instantly educate users and lower the risk of a human-error induced data breach.
Some tools offer limited free versions or trials, but these are generally not sufficient for comprehensive dark web monitoring. I picked LastPass for its combination of password management and dark web scanning features. When I compared it to similar offerings, I found LastPass provides a broader range of features catering to individual users. I consider it best for individual users requiring password management and dark web scans.
Why You Should Monitor Dark Web Activities
Over 6.5TB of deep and dark web data is ingested daily by patent-protected technology and added to Kroll’s secure data store indexed over 14 years. Kroll analysts work with you to identify your unique set of keywords to customize monitoring based on your organization’s needs and potential threats. Once exposed data is identified, AI algorithms filter and prioritize for evaluation by Kroll’s Intelligence analysts, providing a powerful combination of technology and human analysis to reduce false positives. To counteract this threat, the monitoring service initiates a proactive investigation, meticulously scrutinizing system activity to uncover any anomalies or unusual behaviors that may signify the presence of malicious intent. By preemptively detecting and responding to such indicators, dark web monitoring is a vital defense mechanism, fortifying your cybersecurity posture against potentially devastating attacks. Gaining operational intelligence on what data these sites are offering is critical to defending cybercriminals using compromised accounts to enable attacks, commit fraud, or conduct campaigns using spear phishing or brand spoofing.
The dark web is also a source of intelligence on the operations, tactics, and intent of criminal groups. Tools that monitor the dark web for compromised data are available for these purposes. Recorded Future’s dark web monitoring equips businesses with crucial insights for protecting vital data. Book your demo today to fortify your digital defenses against dark web threats. Dark web monitoring tools work by continuously scanning the dark web and deep web for any data that may be relevant to a business.
Monitoring dark web activity is essential for several reasons:
Researchers often grapple with gaining access to restricted areas, which may require active participation in these platforms. The need for ongoing updates and expanded investigation scopes can divert resources away from analysis and threat mitigation. If organizations don’t monitor their presence on the dark web, they’ll have no way of knowing whether their data has ended up on an underground forum like the above. This could be vital intelligence that helps to stop a targeted attack using leaked data.
The DarkOwl vision system is integrated into a package of intelligence services, called Darkint Suite. Another element in this suite is Darkint Score, which is a vulnerability assessment of the client company’s exposure to Dark Web data loss. DarkOwl Vision is a cross between the CrowdStrike and Echosec services on this list. Like CrowdStrike, this system requires you to set up a list of identifiers for your company, which include domain names, addresses, and product names.
- Data Breaches: Personal information from data breaches often appears on the dark web, making it imperative to monitor for compromised data.
- Identity Theft: Stolen identities can be bought and sold, leading to fraudulent activities that can impact victims.
- Business Intelligence: Companies should track mentions of their brand or products to mitigate reputational risks.
- Cybersecurity: Understanding threats can help businesses strengthen their security measures.
How to Monitor Dark Web Effectively
Companies and individuals can utilize a variety of techniques and tools to monitor dark web activities:
- Utilize Dark Web Monitoring Tools: Platforms like SpyCloud, DarkOwl, and Recorded Future offer specialized services to help identify stolen data.
- Engage with Cybersecurity Experts: Partnering with cybersecurity firms can provide insights into emerging threats and vulnerabilities.
- Set Up Alerts: Certain tools allow users to set alerts for specific keywords or data points, notifying them when their information appears online.
Potential Challenges of Monitoring Dark Web
While monitoring the dark web is crucial, there are challenges to consider:
- Volume of Data: The vast amount of information on the dark web can be overwhelming and difficult to sift through.
- Legal Implications: Navigating the dark web can lead to unintentional legal issues.
- Technical Complexity: Understanding the tools and processes required for effective monitoring can require specialized knowledge.
FAQs about Monitoring the Dark Web
1. What is the dark web?
The dark web is an encrypted part of the Internet that requires specific software to access, such as Tor. It hosts anonymous sites that are not indexed on standard web search engines.
2. Why should I be concerned about my information being on the dark web?
Your personal or business information can be sold or traded on the dark web, leading to identity theft, financial loss, and other security issues.
- Chatter or activity from a website may alert businesses if there is an imminent attack or if they are already under attack.
- For example, if you receive an alert that your credit card number was discovered, you can contact your credit card company to request a new number.
- Dark web monitoring tools should also play an active role in an organization’s overall security program.
- Digital Threat Monitoring uses machine learning to extract actionable information from our stream of proprietary threat intelligence and combine it with frontline knowledge.
3. How can I tell if my information is on the dark web?
Utilizing dark web monitoring services can provide insights by scanning for your data on known dark web forums and marketplaces.
4. Can I access the dark web safely?
While tools like Tor can provide anonymity, accessing the dark web comes with risks, such as encountering illicit content and potential legal issues.
5. What should I do if my information is found on the dark web?
If your information is compromised, consider taking immediate action, such as changing passwords, monitoring financial accounts, and possibly notifying relevant authorities.
In conclusion, the decision to monitor dark web activities is crucial for maintaining security and mitigating risks associated with data breaches and identity theft. By employing the right tools and strategies, individuals and organizations can better protect themselves from potential threats lurking in the shadows of the Internet.
