What is the Dark Web and how can it affect me?
Posted 4th September 2019
Did you know that the internet is made up of three different layers? The layer you’re reading this on is called the Surface Web, it’s the place where you online shop, check sports scores, stream TV and wander about on Facebook. Below that is the Deep Web. The Deep Web is the place of online banking, work intranets, draft blogs, basically all the places that you can’t access via Google and need some kind of password to access. Beneath that is the Dark Web, a place that isn’t indexed and can only be accessed using Tor, a method of encryption that allows untraceable online activity and anonymity. This means that illicit material can be bought and sold with ease.
In a 2019 study by Dr Michael McGuiness, researchers discovered that 60% of Dark Web listings could potentially harm businesses and enterprises. Within the depths of the Dark Web it’s possible to pick up credit card details with CVV numbers for as little as $5. For just $30 you can grab a bundle ‘fullz deal’ containing personal information, credit card numbers, and everything else that you need to successfully steal someone’s identity. Scary stuff when you think about it.
So how could you be affected by the Dark Web?
Every time a data hack takes place the information that is stolen is sold on the Dark Web, after all the hackers are hacking to fill their bank accounts. Whether that is from actually accessing your bank accounts and cards or selling important data that has been stolen from your systems, e.g. customer account details.
LP Networks always recommend that you regularly update your passwords, especially if there has been a hacking attempt in the news, but also if you are concerned about your system security. You should always ensure that your passwords aren’t easily findable, so avoid names of family members, pets, birthdays, anniversaries. One suggestion on creating a secure password is to pick 4 random and unconnected things that you can see from your computer. In that way, the only way a person will know the right order or objects is if they are sitting at your desk.
Where possible always follow up your password with two factor authentication which provides an extra layer of security through a text message or phone call to a specified number.
We also recommend that you fully train your team in data protection and cybersecurity, after all, it only takes one chink in your armour for an attacker to get in.
What else should you consider?
Finally, you should consider how secure your system is and whether you should consider investing in a SIEM system which pro-actively protects your files and documents. Get in touch discuss how we can protect your business on 0800 970 8980 or email us on enquiries@lpnetworks.com