The dark web is an invisible layer of the internet that is not accessible to the general public. It is a paradise for criminals, as they can conduct their illegal business there anonymously. This includes attacks on companies and the theft of sensitive data. That is why it is important for Swiss SMEs to protect themselves against such threats. One way to do this is a dark web scan.
What is a dark web scan? A dark web scan is a tool that can regularly scan the dark web for possible threats to a company. These threats can be, for example: lost or stolen user data, hacked login credentials, confidential documents and much more. The tool then searches illegal marketplaces, darknet forums and other dark corners of the internet, among other places, for signs of such threats.
How can a dark web scan help the company? A dark web scan can help the company in several ways. Firstly, it helps to identify possible threats at an early stage. This allows the company to react quickly and take appropriate measures to prevent an attack or data theft. Secondly, it can help to meet compliance requirements, such as adherence to data protection and security regulations.
How is a dark web scan carried out? A dark web scan is usually carried out by an external service provider with the necessary expertise and resources. The steps in carrying out a dark web scan include:
Data collection: First, relevant data such as e-mail addresses, user names and passwords is collected.
Vulnerability check: The collected data is then checked for vulnerabilities by comparing it against known data leaks and stolen databases.
Reporting: If potential vulnerabilities are found, a detailed report is prepared containing information about the type of data, the person affected and the time of the data loss.
Measures to eliminate vulnerabilities: Based on the report, the person affected and the company can take measures to eliminate the vulnerabilities and prevent future attacks.
Overall, a dark web scan can provide valuable insights into the security of company data and help prevent data breaches. Swiss SMEs should consider carrying out this type of check regularly to make sure their data is safe.