Last Updated on October 8, 2025 by Narendra Sahoo
We have all heard of the phrase ‘Dark Web’, but on our computers and mobile devices, we see ordinary websites displaying everyday content. It’s only in movies that we see people in dark rooms scrabbling through endless streams of data, which we assume isthe so-called ‘Dark Web’. But the reality of the dark web is a lot more horrifying and complex than what you and I could ever imagine.
What is the Dark Web?
Before we go into the details of the dark web, it’s important to understand the different layers of the internet. There are 3 primary layers Surface Web, Deep Web, and Dark Web. The Surface Web includes normal websites indexed by search engines. Next up is the deep web, which contains private content such as databases, medical records, and corporate intranets. Any data that requires authorization will be a part of the deep web. Then comes the dark web. It’s a hidden layer of the internet that can be accessed using special software, configurations, or authorizations.
Special web browsers are required to access the dark web, like the Tor (the Onion router) or I2P (Invisible Internet Project). The dark web wasn’t illegal from the start, but it eventually became so once people started using it for illegal activities.
Today, the dark web is used for communications requiring utmost privacy, whistleblowing, evading censorship, etc. It has also become a haven for cybercriminals to steal data and sell it on the dark web for a handsome amount. Illegal activities on the
dark web generate more than $1.5 billion every year, and this number continues to rise.
How Stolen Data is Traded on Dark Web Sites?
Cybercriminals exploit security gaps to steal data and sell it on the dark web marketplace. Different types of data fetch different values on the dark web. Personal and financial information are the most sought-after data sets on the platform.
Personal Data – This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers. The data is obtained to carry out identity theft and account takeover. Cybercriminals bundle this data into a ‘fullz’ package, which includes detailed personal
records for carrying out more effective fraud.
BriansClub is a popular platform where fullz packages and CVVs are sold.
Financial Data – Banking credentials, credit card numbers, PayPal accounts, and any digital wallet details are among the most sold assets. Cybercriminals use this stolen financial information to make fraudulent transactions, money laundering, and reselling to other fraudsters.
BidenCash is a popular platform for getting stolen payment card data. Bahira is another platform where cybercriminals get stolen card dumps.
Business Data – Corporate databases containing trade secrets, customer records, and intellectual property are targeted in breaches. Cybercriminals extort money from companies or sell the stolen data to competitors for millions of dollars.
RussianMarket is a known platform for providing RDP access, logs, dumps, and more.
Medical Records – Cybercriminals don’t even leave medical records. Patient data and health insurance information demand high prices on the dark web because they are used in medical fraud and blackmail schemes. Not only that, but medical records are exploited for a longer period than credit card numbers.
Government Credentials – Driver’s licenses, Passports, and national ID cards are high-value data, as these are used to create forged identities or bypass security screenings. But how can cybercriminals access such crucial data? What methods do they use to obtain this data? Let’s find out:
How Cybercriminals Steal Your Data?
Cybercriminals use a mix of technical exploits and psychological tricks to steal data. They often leverage vulnerabilities in security controls. Businesses that fail to conduct cybersecurity risk assessments become highly susceptible to these threats. Below are the primary methods used by cybercriminals to obtain stolen data:
1. Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are the top tactic used by cybercriminals to steal personal data and login credentials. In this, attackers create convincing emails or messages that mimic legitimate sources to trick individuals into opening fake URLs. Users then enter their
personal information on those websites only to become victims of cyber fraud. According to the APWG report, more than a million phishing attacks were carried out in the first quarter of 2025, the highest since late 2023.
2. Malware and Ransomware
Malware is malicious software installed on the system to extract data without detection. Cybercriminals use malware to infiltrate systems and access sensitive information. Whereas Ransomware encrypts files, forcing businesses to pay to regain access. A report by Cybersecurity Ventures predicts that the damages inflicted by ransomware will reach $265 billion by 2031.
3. Insider Threats
Employees with access to sensitive business data pose a huge risk. They can unknowingly expose the data due to negligence or intentionally sell it for profit. A 2024 report by IBM found that insider-related breaches take an average of 292 days to
identify and contain. The report underscores the urgent need for strict access controls and continuous monitoring.
4. Credential Stuffing
Using the same password across multiple sites may feel convenient, but it exposes users to serious risk. Cybercriminals run automated scripts to test login details on various platforms. This technique enables unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report found that over 80% of hacking-related breaches involved stolen or weak passwords.
These are the most popular methods cybercriminals use to steal data. Let us explore how to protect it from ending up on the dark web.
How to Protect Data from Getting Stolen?
Implementing a few simple steps can help protect the data from being accessed by cybercriminals. Conducting regular cybersecurity risk assessments is the first step.
These assessments help identify the vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them. These must include vulnerability scans, penetration testing, and compliance checks to meet required cybersecurity standards. Below are the security measures that ensure data protection against most (if not all) threats.
1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA is an additional layer of security that protects your data from any unauthorized access, even when the credentials are compromised.
2. Data Encryption & Access Controls
Encrypting sensitive data renders it useless to cybercriminals. As for the access controls, there should be policies in place that follow the principle of least privilege. This means allowing employees to access the data necessary for their roles.
3. Employee Training & Awareness
Phishing attacks account for most data breaches, so organizations must train their employees on how to recognize and report phishing attempts.
4. Dark Web Monitoring Services
These are specialized services that continuously scan dark web marketplaces and forums for stolen data and leaked credentials. With early detection and response, threats can be averted successfully.
Conclusion
The dark web continues to grow, with more stolen data being traded across different platforms every minute. It poses a serious threat to individuals and businesses globally.While the risks are significant, they can be mitigated through the right security
measures, proactive monitoring, and strong cyber hygiene. It’s more important to invest in comprehensive SOC services and dark web monitoring now than it ever was. These services can help organizations detect potential breaches early and take decisive steps to protect their most valuable assets.
Narendra Sahoo (PCI QPA, PCI QSA, PCI SSF ASSESSOR, CISSP, CISA, CRISC, 27001 LA) is the Founder and Director of VISTA InfoSec, a global Information Security Consulting firm, based in the US, Singapore & India. Mr. Sahoo holds more than 25 years of experience in the IT Industry, with expertise in Information Risk Consulting, Assessment, & Compliance services. VISTA InfoSec specializes in Information Security audit, consulting and certification services which include GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA, NESA, MAS-TRM, PCI DSS Compliance & Audit, PCI PIN, SOC2 Compliance & Audit, PDPA, PDPB to name a few. The company has for years (since 2004) worked with organizations across the globe to address the Regulatory and Information Security challenges in their industry. VISTA InfoSec has been instrumental in helping top multinational companies achieve compliance and secure their IT infrastructure.
