How Leaked Emails Fuel Phishing and Fraud on the Dark Web
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By Farrukh Mushtaq
Farrukh Mushtaq
See author profileFarrukh 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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8 May 2025
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15 mins read
Leaked emails are like a secret weapon for cybercriminals, giving them a direct path to your inbox. Once they get it, they can flood you with fake messages designed to steal your personal information or install dangerous software.
And once your email is out there, it can end up on the dark web, where scammers use it to fuel even more fraud. It’s a growing problem, but understanding how it works can help you protect yourself. Read this blog to know how leaked emails are rising phishing and fraud.
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.
What Happens When Your Email Gets Leaked?
Here’s what happens when your email gets leaked:
You Get a Lot of Random Emails
Once your email gets leaked, you'll start getting spam, and some might look real but are actually scams trying to steal your information.
People Can Pretend to Be You
If someone has your email and other details, they could try to be you online by creating fake accounts or logging into your accounts as if they’re you.
Your Other Accounts Can Get Hacked
If you use the same password for everything, hackers can try it on your social media, shopping, or bank accounts, and if it works, they can get in.
Your Information Can Be Shared or Sold
Your email could end up on dangerous websites where personal information is bought and sold, making it easier for more scammers to get it.
Your Online Life Feels Less Safe
You can get alerts for logins you didn’t do or strange activity on your accounts, making you feel like your privacy is gone.
Why Are Leaked Emails So Important to Hackers?
Your email might seem small, but to hackers, it’s very important. Once they get it, they can do all sorts of wrong things. This is how:
It Gives Them Access to Other Accounts
If hackers get into your email, they can try to get your other accounts like Facebook, Instagram, shopping, or even your bank.
They Can Trick You Easily
Scammers can use your email to send fake messages that look real, asking you to click a link or type in your password. If you do, they can steal more of your information.
They Can Pretend to Be You
If they know your name and email, they can act like you. They can open fake accounts or do things online in your name.
They Sell It to Other Hackers
Your email can end up on shady websites where people buy it and use it for scams, and it keeps getting shared around.
Work Emails Are Even More Useful
If it's a work email, hackers can trick your boss or coworkers into stealing money or important company information.
How Can You Check If Your Email Has Been Leaked?
There are a few ways to check if your email has been leaked on the dark web, but the easiest way is through PurePrivacy's Dark Web Monitoring. It keeps an eye out for your information and lets you know if anything turns up. Here's how:
Enable PurePrivacy’s Dark Web Monitoring
- Get PureMax.
- Install app on device.
- Go to the Dark Web Monitoring section.
- Select Add Assets to Monitor.
- Add your email, phone number, or other sensitive details.
- Verify via the code sent to your registered number.
- Follow recommended actions if your data is found in a breach.
- Mark the breaches as resolved once you've taken corrective steps.
What Should You Do If Your Email Is Found on the Dark Web?
If you find out that your email is on the dark web, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do right away to protect yourself:
Change Your Passwords
Start by changing the passwords for your email and other accounts, using strong, unique combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols for each one.
Turn On Extra Security (MFA)
Whenever possible, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for extra security, so you’ll need a code sent to your phone in addition to your password to log in.
Keep an Eye on Your Money
Check your bank and credit card statements often for any strange activity, report anything suspicious, and set up a fraud alert to stop anyone from opening new accounts in your name.
Be Careful with Emails
Be careful with unexpected emails or messages asking for personal information, as hackers may try to trick you into giving details or clicking on dangerous links.
Use Dark Web Monitoring
Use PurePrivacy's dark web monitoring to see if your personal information is found on the dark web, and get alerts to act fast.
Keep Your Security Up to Date
Keep your devices updated, be careful what you share online, and change your passwords often to stay safe.
While you cannot delete your email from the dark web, doing these things will help keep your accounts safe and lower the chances of your information being misused.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How can I protect my email from being leaked?
You can protect yourself by using strong passwords and avoid sharing your email on strange websites. Also enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add extra protection.
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What happens if my email is leaked on the dark web?
Hackers can use your email to get your other accounts or send fake messages to steal your information. Change your passwords and monitor your accounts closely.
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How can I stop receiving phishing emails after my email is leaked?
Turn on spam filters and avoid clicking on links that seem strange. Don’t share your personal information in emails unless you're sure who it's from.
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Should I tell my contacts if my email has been leaked?
Yes, tell your contacts so they can be alerted to any strange emails from you. It helps stop scams and phishing attacks.
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Can I remove my email from the dark web?
No, you cannot delete it, but you can monitor it using PurePrivacy’s Dark Web Monitoring. Just stay alert and change your passwords if necessary.
Final Thoughts!
Having your email leaked can create a lot of problems. Hackers can use it to access your other accounts, send fake emails, and even pretend to be you online. Once it's out on the dark web, it can be hard to take it back.
While you cannot remove your email from the dark web, using services like dark web monitoring and staying alert can help protect your information. The important thing is to take quick action if your email is found and stay alert to keep your accounts safe.
