Is Your Password Reset Information found on the Dark Web?

Popular remote access platform AnyDesk forced a password reset for all users after a big data breach exposed several login credentials for 18,000 accounts.

The compromised data was reportedly found for sale on illegal hacker forums for $15,000. 

And the news comes just one day after AnyDesk announced a compromise of their production systems.  

Security researchers were quick to identify the leak, highlighting the potential risk to the platform’s 170,000 users, including small businesses and major corporations. 

AnyDesk has quickly responded by activating a remedy plan and calling in cybersecurity experts CrowdStrike to investigate the incident. 

But the bottom line is that our passwords are important for keeping our online accounts secure. But what happens if someone finds a way to reset these passwords without our permission? 

In this blog, we'll explore a troubling issue, when password reset information is discovered on the dark web. 

We'll discuss what this means for your online safety and offer tips on how to protect yourself from these hidden threats. Let's get into what you need to know to stay secure online.

How Can I Check If My Password Reset Information Is on the Dark Web?

To determine if your password reset information is posted on illegal hacker forums or sites, use dark web monitoring tools. 

These tools search hidden areas of the internet for personal data like your email address, security questions, or reset links.

Steps to Take After Finding Your Password Reset Information on the Dark Web

If you discover that your password reset information is on the dark web, take these steps to protect yourself:

Change Your Passwords 

• Update passwords for all accounts linked to your password reset information.
• Use strong, unique passwords, and consider using a password manager to keep them secure.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• MFA provides an additional layer of security by requiring extra verification methods, such as a code or biometric scan, even if someone has your login details.

Monitor Your Financial Accounts

• Regularly check your bank accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity. Obtain a free credit report from Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax at AnnualCreditReport.com.
• Report any unauthorized transactions or new accounts to your bank and credit bureaus immediately.

How Did My Password Reset Information End Up on the Dark Web?

Your password reset information might end up on the dark web through various methods, including:

Data Breaches

• Companies that manage your personal information may suffer data breaches, exposing your password reset details.

Malware Infectious 

• Malicious software on your device can capture and upload your password reset information to the dark web.

Phishing Attempts

• Cybercriminals might trick you into revealing your password reset details through fake emails or websites, which are then sold on the dark web.

Is It Possible to Remove My Password Reset Information from the Dark Web?

The short answer is No. 

Once your password reset information is on the dark web, removing it is nearly impossible. The most effective strategy is to focus on prevention. 

But you can always use Dark Web monitoring tools, update your passwords, and be cautious of phishing attempts.

• Use Dark Web Monitoring to safeguard against identity theft and financial fraud.
• Enable the Tracker Blocker to stop websites from collecting your data.
• Use the Remove My Data feature to automate data removal requests.
• Enhance your privacy on social media with the Social Privacy Manager.

Receive Dark Web Alerts

Scan the dark web and receive immediate alerts if your data is found online, so you can take prompt action to protect yourself.

Block Tracking and Data Collection

Secure your online privacy by preventing websites and third-party trackers from gathering your browsing activity and personal information.

Automate Data Removal Requests 

Identify and automatically request data removal from over 200 data brokers using PurePrivacy’s automated system.

Improve Social Media Privacy

Evaluate and enhance your social media privacy settings with a personalized risk score to boost your online privacy across different platforms.

In Summary

Common tech support scams are on the verge and threat actors pretending to be Microsoft officials offer software cleaning services to steal a customer’s data. 

And as soon as an AnyDesk remote connection starts, online scammers can spread malware on your computer devices and steal credit card details. 

And as cyberthreats become more sophisticated and hackers find new ways to trick you into giving private data, protecting your personal information is essential. 

By using PurePrivacy with a VPN, you can protect your password reset information and defend yourself against cybercriminals on the dark web.