Best dark web monitoring services in 2025
Being behind major reports like The Mother of All Breaches and RockYou2024, our in-house cybersecurity experts and journalists provide unbiased, real-world testing and in-depth analysis.
We maintain complete transparency by openly sharing our testing methodologies with our audience.
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In spite of your best efforts to hide your personal information online, you can never be sure whether some details have been leaked to the dark web. In 2025, there are all sorts of scammers creeping around in the internet’s darkest corners, and they’re constantly harvesting private data, banking details, and personal information of everyday users.
The good news is that a solution exists, and it involves utilising the best dark web monitoring services. They constantly search the dark web for compromised information, letting you know once your sensitive details have leaked. In this guide, I will cover some of the most efficient tools that can quickly identify leaked corporate emails, business banking details, and personal information. I’ll also help you choose the perfect option to steer clear of phishing, malware, and vulnerable connections.
Top 7 dark web monitoring services – shortlist
- NordProtect – dark web monitoring with data breach scanner
- Aura – setting the standard for comprehensive protection
- Norton – security powerhouse with decades of experience
- Malwarebytes – next-generation threat detection focus
- Surfshark Alert – clean, simple monitoring done right
- IDShield – perfect for personal data removals and identity recovery
- Identity Defender – great corporate solution for mitigating identity scam risks
Our testing methodology (2025)
- Monitoring capabilities: We assessed each service's scanning technology, testing how effectively it detected deliberately exposed information across dark web forums, marketplaces, and private channels. We paid particular attention to detection speed and scanning frequency.
- Alert systems: We evaluated the alert mechanisms by seeding test data and measuring response times. Critical factors included alert accuracy, notification methods, and the clarity of threat information provided.
- Recovery support: We examined each provider's response to discovered threats, including the availability of recovery specialists, insurance coverage, and step-by-step remediation guidance.
- Technical infrastructure: We tested how well each service integrated with additional security features like VPNs or antivirus tools and assessed the reliability of their scanning networks.
- Value for money: We compared pricing against feature sets and monitoring capabilities to determine which services offer the best protection for your money.
I saw major differences in each service's approach to dark web monitoring after going through all the criteria above. Some are most effective in rapid detection and alerting, while others shine in scanning coverage or more robust recovery assistance. Recognizing these differences allowed us to determine which services delivered on their dark web protection promises.
Side-by side comparison of the best dark web monitoring services
After thoroughly testing each service, I've compiled their key features and pricing to help you make a direct comparison. This table focuses on the aspects most critical for dark web protection, though some services offer additional security features not listed here.
| Service name | Rating | Key Features | Best for | Price |
| NordProtect | 4.9 |
| All-around identity protection | From $7.49/month |
| Aura | 4.8 |
| Comprehensive digital security | From $10.00/month |
| Norton 360 and LifeLock | 4.5 |
| All-in-one security solutions | From $7.50/month |
| Malwarebytes | 4.2 |
| Technical threat protection | From $4.99/month |
| Surfshark Alert | 4.4 |
| Basic monitoring needs | From $2.69/month |
| IDShield | 4.7 |
| Insurance and Professional recovery support | From $14.95/month |
| Identity Defender | 4.1 |
| Business dark web monitoring with identity recovery options | Pricing available on demand |
Be sure to consider your individual protection needs when selecting a service. If you handle sensitive financial information, you’ll want to prioritize services with robust monitoring and high insurance coverage. For basic personal protection, those simpler services with more rigorous breach detection might do the job. Pricing often – though not always – correlates with the breadth of the protection offered, and many lower-cost services provide less comprehensive coverage and recovery assistance.
The best dark web monitoring services – our detailed list
1. NordProtect – dark web monitoring with online privacy protection
| Rating: | |
| Dark web monitoring: | Yes |
| Credit monitoring: | Yes |
| Insurance coverage: | Yes |
| Free trial: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Starting Price: | $7.49 |
NordProtect provides fast and accurate dark web monitoring. It’s a versatile tool with a broad range of applications, from dark web monitoring to credit monitoring, security alerts, and a $1M insurance package. Here are the main reasons I picked it:
- Dark web monitoring features. NordProtect offers a 24/7 dark web monitoring solution, providing automated and instant alerts for sensitive data leaks. It primarily searches for potentially leaked Social Security numbers (SSNs), email addresses, and other personal information. By running in the background of your device and constantly scanning the dark web, it is able to provide real-time information on exposed details, giving you enough time to take action.
- Credit monitoring features. Aside from providing assistance and protecting you from cyberattacks, NordProtect also offers comprehensive credit monitoring. I especially liked this option since I’ve seen a great deal of users reporting sudden credit score drops after hard checks and new accounts being opened in their name without their knowledge. NordProtect minimizes the chance of that happening to you with its early detection system.
- Automated and real-time security alerts. One of my favourite aspects of this tool is its commitment to providing real-time updates. These alerts are fully automated once you have set up dark web and credit monitoring. In case of any potential leak or compromised details, you’ll receive one of the three possible alerts. It could be a dark web alert, a credit activity alert, or a product notification about the latest app features.
- Extra security. Along with all the monitoring features, NordProtect also helps you keep yourself out of harm's way. I especially liked the complete integration with Nord’s suite of programs for setting up virtual private networks, running password managers, and utilizing the dedicated antivirus service.
- Identity theft recovery. Along with the $1M insurance coverage, this tool also helps you get back on your feet after an identity theft in other ways. The full coverage suite offers reimbursements and helps keep restoration costs low after an incident.
- Convenient pricing. Last but not least, NordProtect features a reasonable pricing range for both individuals and companies. It starts at $12.99/month and goes up to around $17.99/month, depending on the package. Annual plans help you save on monthly subscription costs, while the 30-day money-back guarantee enables you to make a confident decision after trying it out, essentially for free.
Key features summary
- Scouts the dark web, illegal marketplaces and forums, and data dumps for leaks
- Offers up to $100,000 in cyber extortion insurance
- Offers up to $1 million in identity theft protection insurance
- Offers identity restoration manager assistance
- Monitors and alerts of personal data leaks
Standout point
NordProtect's unique advantage is the $100,000 cyber extortion insurance. While the industry standard is up to $1 million in identity theft damages reimbursement, NordProtect expands its insurance policy to include more scenarios.
2. Aura – lightning-fast dark web detection and comprehensive alerts
| Rating: | |
| Dark web monitoring: | Yes |
| Credit monitoring: | Yes |
| Insurance coverage: | Yes |
| Free trial: | Yes (14-day free trial) |
| Starting Price: | $10.00 |
Aura's dark web monitoring has been consistently thorough and quick in my testing. This service is part of a larger identity protection platform focusing on rapid and responsive threat detection. These are just some of the reasons why it ranks among my top picks:
- Identity theft protection. I liked the sound of Aura’s all-in-one app for complete online security, especially given the affordable, $10/month starting price. It primarily focuses on identity protection by giving you daily insights and critical alerts. It’s also available for multi-user family scans, while AI-powered features constantly monitor your personal details, from credit home titles to credit requests and complete identity theft attempts.
- Credit monitoring and locking features. Aura also offers a comprehensive credit and financial security monitoring toolkit, complete with detailed score overviews. You can monitor daily changes by checking in and comparing the details from reports of all three major bureaus. The app also monitors your accounts, credit inquiries, spending, and other financial information to ensure none of your accounts are being misused.
- Online activity tracking for children. Unlike most other options on the list, Aura also offers monitoring features to enhance the digital safety of your children. I find this to be a great advantage, as you’ll get personalized parent insights with detailed daily summaries. You can set up limits for sites and apps that your young ones try to access, as well as limit their daily screen time altogether for healthier habits.
- Alerts on suspicious transactions. As mentioned, Aura’s financial security monitoring doesn’t only reflect in its credit-related readings. It also tracks your financial activities and issues real-time alerts on any potentially fishy transactions made in your name.
- AI-powered fraud alerts. Thanks to AI-powered insights, Aura offers nearly instant fraud alerts and notifications. You can view the notification history within your app and conveniently manage alerts as they appear.
- Other features. Finally, I’d like to highlight Aura’s features that provide you with complete peace of mind while going about your daily activities. These include the $1 million insurance coverage, coupled with a 60-day money-back guarantee, and around-the-clock, US-based support for urgent inquiries and identity theft responses.
Key Features
- AI-powered dark web scanning across marketplaces, forums, and data dumps
- Near-instantaneous alerts through multiple channels, i.e., email, text, app
- Three-bureau credit monitoring with real-time alerts
- $1 million identity theft insurance coverage
- Integrated security suite with VPN and antivirus
- 24/7 U.S.-based recovery specialists
Standout Point
Aura’s outstanding attribute is the speed and accuracy of its alerts. During my testing, Aura reliably detected and alerted me to leaked data within as little as a few minutes, while most other providers took anywhere from hours to days to catch the same threats.
3. Norton 360 and LifeLock – enterprise-grade dark web surveillance and security
| Rating: | |
| Dark web monitoring: | Yes |
| Credit monitoring: | Yes |
| Insurance coverage: | Yes |
| Free trial: | Yes (30-day free trial) |
| Starting Price: | $7.50 |
Norton’s dark web monitoring is also part of the LifeLock identity protection service. It uses decades of cybersecurity industry experience to identify threats. During my testing, the monitoring stood out, particularly its coverage of financial and credit-based exposures. Even so, it's just one of the main features, so here's a brief overview of the others:
- Lifelock identity protection. Norton 360 provides comprehensive coverage of basic VPN and antivirus tools, complemented by the LifeLock identity theft prevention program. It operates based on the native Genie AI, and I especially appreciated its protection against sophisticated scams and SMS fraud attempts, providing a comprehensive identity fraud protection package.
- Complete financial protection. While standard with most tools, Norton’s financial protection features sound even more convenient with the LifeLock, VPN, and antivirus included in a single price plan. Even with the basic subscription, you’ll still get to track your credit and financial details across 10 different devices with real-time alerts.
- 24/7 data monitoring. Scammers never sleep, so it’s a good thing that Norton’s Genie AI doesn’t need rest at all. In fact, it runs in the background of your device around the clock, ensuring the ultimate level of protection against all identity and financial fraud attempts.
- Convenient reimbursements and insurance packages. Depending on your plan, you can also secure your online information and details with an insurance policy of up to $1 million. You also receive reimbursements and comprehensive coverage for potentially stolen funds.
- US-based restoration specialists. While crafting this list, I aimed to include as many options as possible with local US support teams. Thankfully, Norton connects you with local restoration specialists 24/7, so you’ll always have someone to turn to in case of detected fraud.
- Coverage for up to 10 devices. One standout trait of Norton 360 and its LifeLock feature is its capability to protect a wide range of devices; it protects up to 10 devices linked to your account. These include everything from PCs to Android phones and tablets, macOS devices, and iPhones. Plus, you get up to 250 GB of secure cloud storage for backups.
Key Features
- Dark web monitoring covering all threat sources
- Financial account and credit monitoring
- Bank account takeover alerts
- SSN and personal records monitoring
- $1 million identity theft insurance
- Integration with Norton 360 security suite
Standout Point
Norton’s defining point is its integration with the broader Norton cybersecurity ecosystem. During my testing, I found that the combination of competent dark web monitoring with the security tools Norton is known for offered preventative protection that many competitors simply couldn't match.
4. Malwarebytes – advanced malware elimination and dark web scanning
| Rating: | |
| Dark web monitoring: | Yes |
| Credit monitoring: | Yes |
| Insurance coverage: | Up to $1 million in identity theft insurance |
| Free trial: | Yes (14-day free trial) |
| Starting Price: | $4.99 |
Malwarebytes is best known for its antivirus software, but it is also an extremely useful tool for identity theft protection and monitoring the dark web. It has an elaborate data breach monitoring system that particularly focuses on data and credentials stolen through malware attacks, and these are some of the main features that caught my eye:
- Complete dark web monitoring. Malwarebytes is a renowned tool for malware protection, but it’s also an extremely efficient dark web scanner. Checks are based on your personal details and provide tailored reports that are typically lightning-fast. It’s perhaps one of the most comprehensive tools on my list, but I must say that the monitoring report isn’t as extensive as those of some higher-ranking options. Then again, it’s more than enough to keep you safe and protected with a proactive approach to fraud and identity theft.
- Identity protection and recovery. Another field where Malwarebytes excels is identity protection and recovery. The platform keeps you completely safe from any potential identity fraud attempts through complete coverage of your financial accounts, online details, and even social media. It monitors your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media accounts for suspicious activity and helps you note any potential malicious files.
- Credit monitoring. Malwarebytes also helps keep your financial data safe and submits detailed credit reports to point out potential threats of someone using accounts in your name. However, I must say that this set of features isn’t the tool’s strongest suit, considering that it lacks advanced credit report monitoring and other features that some of the higher-end options offer. It’s still a valuable tool if you just care about noticing suspicious financial activity on time, though.
- Digital footprint scans. If you’re new to dark web monitoring tools, you’ll probably need a simple way to get started. That’s why the platform’s digital footprint scanner is so efficient – you can set things in motion by simply providing your email. The tool will do the rest for you by scanning your accounts for details that might potentially be exposed on the dark web. It also delivers tailored protection guidance, so you can take action as soon as possible.
- Complete suite of malware protection features. Another thing I liked about this one is that you can always use standard Malwarebytes protection tools. These include the antivirus scanner, adware removal, and the VPN service.
Key Features
- AI detection system for dark web scanning
- Email and password breach monitoring
- Financial data tracking
- Personal ID monitoring
- Real-time alerts
- Integration with reputable antivirus
Standout Point
Whereas most dark web monitoring services scan marketplaces and forums, Malwarebytes excels at preventing, detecting, and eliminating malware, a key credential leak vector. This matters because data stolen via malware often winds up on the dark web months before victims learn about their compromised accounts. Eliminating these threats is one of the best ways to prevent identity theft.
5. Surfshark Alert – minimalist dark web breach detection and notification
| Rating: | |
| Dark web monitoring: | Yes |
| Credit monitoring: | Yes |
| Insurance coverage: | No |
| Free trial: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Starting Price: | $2.69 |
Surfshark combines VPN development experience with dark web monitoring. The result is a focused, streamlined service that excels at identifying breached accounts, leaked credentials, and compromised personal information, especially when that data surfaces in new or previously unknown breach databases. Here’s a glimpse of its standout perks:
- Complete identity monitoring. Surfshark’s Alert program provides comprehensive identity theft protection by monitoring for fake accounts and misrepresentation. It also handles dark web monitoring and scans the internet for data leaks, including payment information, credit card details, email addresses, and online account credentials.
- Credit card monitoring. One slight downside to Surfshark’s Alert toolkit is that it doesn’t offer dedicated credit score monitoring; however, it does perform credit card monitoring. With real-time alerts, you can get notified in case someone steals your card details and credentials and take action before they manage to make purchases with your card.
- Personal data leak alerts. This tool handles identity theft protection effectively, providing detailed reports and alerts on various metrics. For instance, it warns you about fake accounts, doxxing, surveillance, and even black market activities, and provides a personalized overview of leak alerts. You can use it to monitor email addresses, credit cards, and national IDs, and it’s a perfect tool for avoiding phishing and impersonation campaigns.
- Corporate protection features. I also liked the tool’s business applications, including detailed data leakage monitoring. Aside from personal information, Surfshark Alert also gives you updates on compromised corporate data and operations. You can receive custom alerts for stolen intellectual property, a valuable feature to have in case someone attempts to copy your digital product. Or, you can use it to find the reasons behind a decline in your brand’s reputation that may have been caused by data leakage.
- Bundled Surfshark functions. Last but not least, you’ll also be able to use other Surfshark functions while using the Alert program. This includes the VPN service, Surfshark antivirus, and a private browsing tool for enhanced online security.
Key Features
- Real-time data breach scanning
- Personal information monitoring
- Email breach detection
- Credit card protection
- Integration with Surfshark One suite
- Custom alert frequency options
Standout Point
Surfshark Alert is significantly simpler and faster than most other providers. The service strips away complexity to focus on fast breach detection and notification, which makes it extremely suited to users who want simple monitoring without the need to work through complex dashboards or unnecessary features.
6. IDShield – dark web monitoring with expert recovery support
| Rating: | |
| Dark web monitoring: | Yes |
| Credit monitoring: | Yes |
| Insurance coverage: | Yes |
| Free trial: | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| Starting Price: | $14.95 |
IDShield takes a distinctive approach to dark web monitoring. It combines automated scanning with licensed private investigators, so human experts are available to help you respond to any identity theft incidents. It also handles social media monitoring and credit tracking. Here’s a summary of all the main features:
- Identity theft monitoring and recovery. IDShield monitors the dark web for potentially stolen information and provides detailed reports. Additionally, it's reassuring to know that you can rely on their comprehensive identity restoration protocol in the event of identity theft. I appreciated their personalized approach, as they offer dedicated and licensed private investigators for each identity theft case. So, you can get real human help, as well as 24/7 access to identity theft support. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that your insurance policy covers $3 million in the worst-case scenario.
- Personal data monitoring. This tool monitors your personal data on social media, public records, and even court hearings. It also checks medical data reports and address changes, so I’d say it’s one of the most complete solutions on the list. You can set up personalized threat alerts that appear in real time while using the IDShield application.
- Credit monitoring. With IDShield, you get a complete credit monitoring and protection service. The program continually monitors your financial data and records, noting any credit report checks, loan inquiries, and changes to your credit score. You can also set it up with a specific credit card in mind and enable 24/tracking of all activity.
- SSN protection. This tool is among the few options that offer a dedicated SSN protection service. It constantly monitors your Social Security number and scans all corners of the internet looking for reports on your SSN being used by scammers.
- Complete family protection solution. Ultimately, IDShield can also be used as a comprehensive family solution, offering plans that cover all your family members' SSNs, credit scores, and ID theft tracking. You can opt for a bundled plan that includes identity restoration, insurance coverage, and financial protection, providing you with peace of mind regarding your family’s digital data and assets.
Key Features
- Licensed private investigator support
- Social media monitoring
- Credit report tracking
- Public records scanning
- Mobile app access
- Up to $3 million in identity theft coverage
Standout Point
IDShield uniquely has licensed private investigators on staff to assist you in responding if your compromised information is exploited for identity theft. In contrast, other services offer only automated systems and third-party insurance policies. This professional support provides an extra layer of protection in case of an identity theft incident after a dark web data leak.
7. Identity Defender
| Rating: | |
| Dark web monitoring: | Yes |
| Credit monitoring: | Yes |
| Insurance coverage: | Up to $1M |
| Free trial: | Yes (30-day free trial) |
| Starting Price: | Free when bundled with ExpressVPN |
ExpressVPN’s Identity Defender is an excellent tool for all US consumers who have already installed the VPN service. In such cases, it comes free of charge and offers nearly every privacy protection feature imaginable, from tracking personal logs and details to monitoring the dark web and your credit score. Here are just some of the areas where it excels:
- Complete identity theft monitoring. ExpressVPN now offers a free identity theft monitoring tool built into its app’s interface. You just need a two-year license in the US, and you can utilize all the monitoring features entirely for free. Among them, I thoroughly enjoyed the ID theft monitoring tool that works 24/7 and searches for any mentions of your personal or banking data on the web or the dark web.
- Credit monitoring features. The Identity Defender tool also features a credit scanner function, which can be activated directly from the ExpressVPN app. You can use it to track your tri-merge score on major bureaus and identify potential score changes resulting from data leakage or identity theft.
- Intuitive, all-in-one app suitable for beginners. Among all the applications and tools I’ve tested, ExpressVPN’s app is by far the most user-friendly. I liked the fact that you don’t need to download any additional software to use the monitoring features, as all the options are available in a single app. This also allows you to conveniently switch to the VPN tool and access a few other security-related features.
- Financial protection protocols. Another noteworthy aspect of this tool is its wide range of applications in terms of financial protection. The most important aspect is the $1 million reimbursement in the event of identity theft.
- ExpressVPN integration. Finally, Identity Defender also includes all the features that a standard subscription gives you. You can use the VPN service, password manager, ad blocker, eSIM, and even an identity theft removal option.
Key features summary:
- Extremely easy to use even if you’ve never used ID protection tools
- Detailed dark web monitoring of personal details, credit cards, and credentials
- ID Theft insurance up to $1 million
- Real-time alerts via the ExpressVPN app
- Advanced protection features like a password manager and a VPN
Standout point:
Identity Defender is a built-in dark web and credit monitoring tool that comes completely free if you’re already using an ExpressVPN subscription in the US. All the protection services and features are built into the ExpressVPN app, making it easier to use together with a VPN, password manager, and other security tools.
What is dark web monitoring?
Dark web monitoring employs sophisticated AI systems and data crawlers to scan encrypted parts of the internet where cybercriminals trade stolen information. While regular browsers can't access these hidden areas, monitoring services use specialized technology to scan marketplaces, encrypted chat rooms, private forums, P2P networks, and data breach databases.
Types of data leaked on the dark web
These services continuously track and index dark web content using multiple layers of encryption and advanced matching algorithms to detect exposed personal information, including:
- Email addresses and passwords
- Social Security numbers
- Credit card and bank details
- Insurance and medical IDs
- Driver's licenses and passports
- Physical addresses
- Phone numbers
- Mother's maiden name
- Online account credentials
- Gaming profiles
When monitoring systems detect your information, they provide real-time alerts so you can take immediate protective action. This continuous surveillance helps identify threats before criminals can exploit your personal data.
How do dark web monitoring services work?
Dark web monitoring services combine automated scanning technology with human intelligence to detect exposed personal information. It involves multi-layered sophisticated detection systems rather than simple keyword matching.
These services search across dark web marketplaces, forums, hidden chat rooms, P2P networks, and data breach databases. These data points are analyzed by advanced AI algorithms, searching for patterns that indicate whether or not compromised personal information exists. This includes checking for:
- Direct matches of monitored information
- Variations of personal data that could indicate identity theft
- Context clues that suggest the trading of stolen information
- New data breach dumps and criminal marketplaces
When the system detects potential exposure, it validates the finding to reduce false positives.
Alerts include:
- What information was exposed
- Where it was found
- Risk level assessment
- Specific steps to protect yourself
- Guidance for securing compromised accounts
Most services also track historical data breaches, checking whether your information appears in newly discovered databases of previously stolen data.
What are the key features to look for in a dark web monitoring service?
In selecting a dark web monitoring service, I found several key features to distinguish between limited and total protection.
Here's what matters most:
Real-time alerts
When your information is compromised, fast notification is key. The best notifications alert you immediately via multiple channels, such as email, SMS, and mobile apps, so you can act before criminals can use your data. Here are some of the most important features when it comes to alerts:
- Instant notifications of detected threats
- Customizable alert preferences by threat type
- Multiple notification channels, like email, text, or app
- Alert prioritization based on risk level
- Historical tracking of past alerts
- Family member notification options
Comprehensive scanning
Good monitoring is more than surface-level scanning. Search for services that scour dark web marketplaces, forums, data breach repositories, and private networks where hacked information is bought and sold. Focus on the following aspects:
- International dark web marketplaces
- Criminal forums and chat rooms
- Data breach repositories
- Credential stuffing databases
- Bot networks and P2P systems
- Social media and public records
Identity theft protection
Optimal services will alert you and help you respond to and recover from a breach or incident. This should include step-by-step recovery assistance, identity theft insurance, and professional guidance for securing compromised accounts. Plus, recovery support features like these always help:
- 24/7 access to recovery specialists
- Clear documentation requirements
- Step-by-step recovery guidance
- Insurance claim assistance
- Expected recovery timeframes
- Credit freeze support
Credit monitoring
Your credit reports often show the first signs of identity theft. Choose a service that watches all three major credit bureaus and alerts you to suspicious changes or new accounts.
Security features
The best services offer additional protective tools, such as VPNs, antivirus software, and password managers, to help prevent data theft. Here are some options to focus on when making your decision:
- VPN services for secure browsing
- Password managers
- Antivirus protection
- Credit monitoring
- Data broker removal
Customer support
When your identity is in jeopardy, you want assistance fast. Access to priority support, particularly 24/7 recovery experts, can be critical in mitigating damage from personal data exposure.
Best practices for dark web monitoring
Security monitoring services can identify exposed information, but preventing data from being available on the dark web requires a multilayered security strategy. Here are essential protective measures:
- Strong authentication. Acting quickly upon the first signs of identity theft or data leakage on the dark web is crucial. You should only set up strong passwords using the best password management software and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for maximum security. Use password strength checkers to ensure your credentials remain robust, and frequently update monitored information.
- Secure home network. Another method you can apply is to partition your home network into primary Wi-Fi, guest Wi-Fi, and IoT networks. I would also suggest using a secure VPN to shield your online activity completely.
- Device security. Update software and firmware across all devices and install reputable antivirus protection. Enable device tracking and remote wiping capabilities while keeping secure, encrypted backups. Exercise particular caution when using public Wi-Fi networks.
- Digital hygiene. Keep browser security settings properly configured and establish strong social media privacy controls. Regularly clear cookies and cache, opt for privacy-focused services when possible, and maintain vigilant email security practices.
- Financial protection. Enable bank transaction alerts and familiarize yourself with credit freeze procedures. Use only secure payment methods and regularly review all financial statements for any suspicious activity.
- Minimize data exposure. Limit the sharing of personal information and actively remove your data from broker databases. Opt out of unnecessary data collection wherever possible and keep sensitive documents secure.
As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While the best dark web monitoring services offer both, keeping your data from ever hitting the dark web is the surest way to stay safe and avoid the costs and inconvenience of identity theft.
Immediate steps after a dark-web alert
If you receive an identity theft alert or a report of dark web data leakage, the most important thing is to remain calm and take action as soon as possible. Here are some basic steps you can take to handle the situation before things get messy:
- Immediately change your passwords. The first step is to check your passwords and update them. You can also use the password manager tools integrated into the NordProtect or Identity Defender plans to create unique and difficult-to-break passwords.
- Enable 2FA wherever possible. You should also set up a 2FA protocol wherever possible, especially within your financial apps. For this purpose, you can use tools like Google Authenticator.
- Monitor your financial accounts and activities. If your identity has been compromised on the dark web, chances are it’s due to the misuse of your financial information. Be sure to check your credit cards, bank accounts, and cashless transfer accounts, such as Venmo and PayPal.
- Freeze your credit. You should also immediately freeze your credit card and your credit reports with the three major credit bureaus. Luckily, you can request a credit freeze with Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian on short notice to avoid further damage to your score.
- Check for signs of identity theft. If you’ve determined that your details have been compromised, you should look for clear signs of identity theft. These include credit score checks, loan inquiries, and credit submissions. One of the best ways to investigate this is by obtaining a tri-merge report from AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Secure your email. Since most of your accounts are managed via email, it’s crucial to act swiftly and secure your account before hackers can change your credentials.
- File an identity theft report. In the worst-case scenario, you can file a police report with your local police department or visit identitytheft.gov to report the incident and set up a recovery plan.
Conclusion
Ultimately, it is crucial to utilize a reliable dark web monitoring service tailored to your needs in 2025, especially if you are running an online business. However, even those with a low level of online presence can become victims of identity theft, and using services like NordProtect is the only reliable way to avoid this.
It’s my top pick for a reason: it tirelessly monitors the darkest corners of the web for personal and banking data leakages. It also helps secure financial records and your Social Security number, while offering $1 million in identity theft insurance. For tri-merge monitoring at a convenient price, Aura is also a great choice, while Identity Defender is an excellent option for those already using ExpressVPN’s two-year subscription in the US.
More ID theft protection guides from Cybernews:
Family identity theft protection
Best identity theft protection for business
FAQ
Is it possible to monitor the dark web?
Yes, specialized services use advanced scanning technology and AI systems to monitor dark web marketplaces, forums, and chat rooms where stolen information is traded. They focus on areas where stolen data is most commonly sold and traded.
What is the best dark web monitoring?
Different services excel in different areas. Aura offers the fastest alerts, Norton provides strong security integration, and IDShield includes expert recovery support. Choose based on your specific needs, budget, and existing security tools.
Are dark web monitoring services safe?
Yes, legitimate services follow strict security standards and data protection protocols. They use encrypted systems, maintain industry certifications, and never interact directly with criminal marketplaces or expose your data during scanning.
What should I do if my information is found on the dark web?
Take immediate action: Change compromised passwords, enable two-factor authentication, notify relevant financial institutions, and follow your monitoring service's recovery guidance. Document everything and, if available, work with your service's recovery team.
What types of personal information can be monitored on the dark web?
Services typically monitor SSNs, email addresses, passwords, credit card numbers, bank accounts, phone numbers, medical IDs, driver's licenses, passports, and social media accounts. Some also track business information and professional credentials.
How often does dark web monitoring happen?
Most services scan continuously, with real-time alerts for new findings. They constantly check known marketplaces, forums, and data breach dumps while expanding coverage as new dark web sources emerge.
