Page 156 - Cyber Defense eMagazine RSAC Special Edition 2025

numbers, email addresses, and phone records—each piece a potential ticket to identity fraud or SIM-
swapping scams.

What Happens with Your Data?

Once in the hands of a cybercriminal, your data becomes a multi-use asset:

• Identity Theft: Fraudsters open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, or file tax returns using
stolen personal details.
• Account Takeover: If your Netflix login is sold, it’s a nuisance. But if your banking or PayPal
credentials are reused across services, the financial fallout can be immediate.
• Synthetic Identities: By blending real and fake information, cybercriminals create “new”
individuals, enabling them to access credit or healthcare fraudulently.
• Corporate Espionage: Leaked corporate credentials often lead to business email compromise
(BEC) attacks, where executives are impersonated to authorize wire transfers.

The Human and Business Cost

The fallout is far more than financial.

• Individuals suffer damaged credit scores, emotional stress, and years of recovery from identity
theft.
• Companies face regulatory scrutiny, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. One
Indian fintech startup in early 2024 suffered a major trust crisis when 20 million user records were
leaked, resulting in investor pullout and app uninstalls.
• Healthcare providers risk patient safety and compliance violations when medical records are
exposed.

Building Resilience Against Dark Web Threats

Preventing your data from ending up on the dark web is an ongoing process—not a one-time fix. A mix
of proactive habits and organizational practices can significantly reduce risk:

• Use Complex, Unique Passwords and update them regularly. A password manager can help
keep track.
• Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible. It’s a simple barrier that stops
most credential attacks.
• Limit Data Sharing: Think twice before filling out online quizzes or sharing sensitive details with
third-party apps.
• Invest in Dark Web Monitoring: Businesses should scan the dark web for leaked credentials or
mentions of their brand in illicit contexts.

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