The dark web is often mentioned in connection with stolen data, ransomware, and criminal activity—but what is it really? More importantly, how does it affect your business, and what can you do to stay protected?
This FAQ answers the most common questions we hear from clients who want to understand the risks and realities of the dark web—along with how dark web monitoring can help reduce exposure and protect sensitive data.
What is the dark web?
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines like Google or Bing. It requires special software (like the Tor browser) to access and is often used to preserve anonymity. While not everything on the dark web is illegal, it’s a known hotspot for criminal activity, including the buying and selling of stolen data, login credentials, malware kits, and more.
If you’re curious about how attackers operate behind the scenes, explore our post on Cybercrime on the Dark Web to learn more.
How is the dark web different from the deep web?
The deep web includes any online content that’s not publicly searchable—like online banking portals or internal company systems. The dark web is a smaller, intentionally hidden portion of the deep web. It’s where many data breaches end up, which is why dark web monitoring is critical for identifying exposed credentials tied to your organization.
Why should my business care about the dark web?
If your company’s data ever gets leaked—such as employee credentials, client information, or internal documents—it may end up for sale or exposure on the dark web. Once there, attackers can use it to launch phishing campaigns, impersonate staff, or gain unauthorized access to your systems. With dark web monitoring, you can be alerted to threats before they escalate into full-blown incidents.
Learn more about how phishing attacks often start with data already on the dark web and how to recognize the signs.
How does data end up on the dark web?
Common causes include:
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Phishing attacks
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Third-party data breaches
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Ransomware
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Poor password hygiene
Even if your own systems haven’t been compromised, a third-party vendor could leak your information without you knowing. That’s where dark web monitoring tools make a difference—by keeping an eye out for exposed data associated with your company’s email domain or login credentials.
For example, see how phishing and weak password practices are connected in our blog on Password Spraying Attacks.
How can I check if my data is on the dark web?
You can’t simply search for it yourself, but dark web monitoring services scan forums, marketplaces, and breach dumps for compromised data tied to your business. At Professional Computer Concepts, we provide this service as part of our cybersecurity offering. If something is found, we alert you quickly and guide you through what to do next.
Is it illegal to visit the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web is not illegal in itself. But engaging in illegal activity while on the dark web—such as purchasing stolen data or malware—is a crime. Most businesses have no reason to go there themselves. Instead, it’s smarter to rely on dark web monitoring tools to handle surveillance safely and legally.
Can I remove my data from the dark web?
In most cases, once data is exposed on the dark web, it cannot be completely removed. Instead, the priority is to contain the damage: change passwords, enable MFA, and take fast action. That’s why dark web monitoring works best as a preventive, early-detection tool.
Not sure how secure your current password practices are? Check out What Does It Really Mean to Use a Strong Password? for actionable tips.
What should I do if I think my data is on the dark web?
If you suspect—or know—that your data is exposed:
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Reset credentials immediately.
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Activate multi-factor authentication (MFA).
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Notify your IT provider.
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Begin monitoring for any signs of misuse.
If you have dark web monitoring in place, you’ll likely catch issues early and avoid the worst-case scenarios.
Need help understanding how breaches unfold? Our blog on How Hackers Get In breaks down the most common entry points.
How can I protect my business from dark web threats?
A layered cybersecurity strategy is your best defense. That includes:
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Strong passwords and MFA
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Phishing awareness training
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Reliable dark web monitoring
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Endpoint protection and patch management
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Employee education
Explore our guide on Cybersecurity Tools and Technologies to see how these pieces work together.
Final Thoughts
The dark web may be out of sight, but it’s not out of reach. Leaked credentials, stolen data, and insider threats all find their way there—and your best defense is knowing about it as early as possible.
At Professional Computer Concepts, we offer dark web monitoring as part of our managed cybersecurity services. Let us scan your domain, uncover hidden threats, and help you respond before it’s too late. Get in touch today to start protecting your business from the inside out.
Read some related articles:
- Common Cyberattacks Explained
- Cybersecurity Services: Protecting Your Business from the Ground Up
- What Is Cyber Hygiene? A Practical Guide for Small and Mid-Sized Businesses
- What Is Executive Impersonation Phishing (Whaling) and Why It’s One of the Costliest Cyber Threats Today