How to Find Leaked Data on the Dark Web

  • By Farrukh Mushtaq

    Farrukh Mushtaq

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    Farrukh Mushtaq, a digital marketer at PureSquare, possesses a keen interest in cybersecurity and enjoys writing about it. With several years of experience in the digital marketing industry, he brings expertise and passion to his work.

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  • 28 February 2025
  • 15 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

In this guide, we'll explain how to check if your data is on the dark web, what to do if it is, and how to protect yourself from future leaks.

Why Data Leaks Happen

A data leak is when sensitive personal information like your name, email address, social security number, or credit card details are exposed or stolen. There are several common reasons why data leaks happen:

  • Cyberattacks and Hacking: Hackers break into companies or websites and steal large amounts of data. If you've ever had an account with a company that got hacked, your information could be compromised.
  • Data Breaches: Sometimes, companies make mistakes and leave personal information exposed, or their security systems are not strong enough to protect it.
  • Weak Security Practices: If your passwords are easy to guess or you reuse the same password across multiple sites, it increases the chances that your data will be stolen.

Once your data is exposed, it can be sold or shared on the dark web, which is challenging to track.

Discover if Your Most Critical Identifiers Have Been Exposed on the Dark Web

Receive timely alerts and actionable insights with PurePrivacy's Dark Web Monitoring.

Check if your email is on the dark web.

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Signs Your Data May Be Leaked on the Dark Web

You may not immediately know if your data has been leaked, but there are a few signs to watch out for:

  • If you start receiving unsolicited emails or phone calls asking for more of your personal details, it could be a sign that someone has accessed your information.
  • Your data may have been compromised if you notice strange charges on your credit card or bank account or unexpected changes in your social media accounts.
  • Sometimes, data leaks happen when hackers release large sets of personal information online. If your name, email, or password is found in these leaks, it's a clear sign that your data may be on the dark web.

If any of these things happen to you, it's time to take action and check if your data is being sold or traded on the dark web.

How to Access the Dark Web Safely

The dark web can be dangerous, and it's easy to stumble upon illegal or harmful content. Here's how to access the dark web securely:

Use a VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps protect your privacy by hiding your IP address and encrypting your internet connection. This makes it harder for anyone to track your online activities.

Download the Tor Browser

The Tor Browser is the most common way to access the dark web. It's a free, open-source web browser that hides your identity by routing your internet traffic through multiple servers around the world.

Don't Download Suspicious Files

You mustn't download any files from the dark web. These files could contain malware or other harmful software that can damage your computer or steal your data.

By using a VPN, you can browse the dark web anonymously and safely.

How to Find Your Data on the Dark Web

If you're worried that your personal information, like your email, passwords, or credit card details, might be floating around the dark web, consider using PureVPN's Dark Web Monitoring

How Dark Web Monitoring Works

Dark web monitoring scans hidden parts of the internet where stolen data is often bought and sold. It looks for your leaked credentials in data dumps, hacker forums, and black-market sites. If your information is found, you get an alert so you can take action, like changing passwords or securing your accounts before anyone misuses them.

Why Is It Useful?

  • You get notified when your information shows up in breaches.
  • If something's leaked, you can secure your accounts before hackers do any damage.
  • Regular scans mean you don't have to keep checking manually.

Enable PureVPN's Dark Web Monitoring 

Use PureVPN and activate dark web monitoring to track your data from leaks and receive real-time alert notifications if someone posts your data on the dark web after a data breach. Here's how you can use Dark Web Monitoring and take action before it's too late:

  1. Install PureVPN on your device or update your existing VPN app.
  2. Visit the Members Area to get access.
  3. Go to Dark Web Monitoring from the main menu.
Enable PureVPN's Dark Web Monitoring 

4.Select Add Assets to Monitor.

5. Add your email address, SSN, credit card number, passport number, and phone number. 

6. Mention the code sent to your registered number and you’re done.

Mention the code sent to your registered number and you’re done

7. Take the recommended steps if your data is part of a breach. 

8. You can mark the breaches as resolved. 

Take the recommended steps if your data is part of a breach

What to Do If Your Data is Found on the Dark Web

If you find out that your data has been leaked on the dark web, don't panic. Follow these steps to stay safe:

Change Your Passwords 

Update the passwords for important accounts like your email, social media, and bank. Use a strong and different password for each account to keep hackers out.

Inform the Company Involved

Contact them if your data was stolen from a specific company or bank. They might help secure your account or provide support.

Report Identity Theft If Needed

If someone is using your personal details without permission, report it to the police or a fraud department. You can also ask your bank or credit agency to put a fraud alert on your account.

Watch Out for Scams

Scammers may use your leaked information to trick you. Be careful with emails or messages asking for personal details, and don't click on unknown links.

Use Dark Web Monitoring to Get Alerts About Information Leaks

Your personal information is a target for hackers and scammers, that will ruin your online identity and finances.

Imagine losing your hard-earned money, your reputation, and your peace of mind to a cybercriminal.

With PureVPN, you can scan the Dark Web 24/7 and receive alert notifications whenever someone posts your private information (Email Address, Phone Number, Credit Card Number, SSN, Passport Number). Get instant Dark Web Alerts and the power to stop data breaches dead in their tracks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I prevent my data from being leaked on the dark web?

    Plus

    While you can't completely prevent data leaks, you can reduce your risk by using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and being alert about where you share your information.

  • How do I know if my data is on the dark web?

    Plus

    Using dark web monitoring, you can find out if your personal information has been exposed on the dark web. It scans hidden websites where stolen data is often sold and alerts you if your sensitive details are found.

  • Is it safe to browse the dark web?

    Plus

    Browsing the dark web can be risky. Always use a VPN to protect your identity and avoid downloading anything from unknown sources.

  • What should I do if my data is found on the dark web?

    Plus

    If you find your data on the dark web, immediately change your passwords and let the company know. Watch for any unusual activity, and be careful of scams.

Wrapping Up!

The dark web is a real threat, but you can stay ahead of it. Staying vigilant, securing your accounts, and acting fast if your data is leaked can make all the difference. Protecting your information is an ongoing effort, but keeping your online life safe is worth it.