The Dark Web is not a place you want your information to end up. Once it is there criminals trade and purchase pieces of it until one of them compiles enough material to commit fraud.  

At Scores Matter we give you the ability to monitor whether your information is on the Dark Web through our Dark Web Scan. But what if you could prevent it from ending up on the Dark Web in the first place?

In the current data climate it is difficult to completely safeguard your information, but with the proper precautions, you can significantly lower the chance of criminals acquiring it.  At ScoresMatter we work to present our users with up to date tips and tools for keeping their data secure. Here are a few: 

Keeping Your Information Off The Dark Web

NEVER give out personal information to questionable entities 

Need we say any more on this one? If it seems sketchy, it probably is. 

Guard your CC when making purchases 

Keep your credit card covered when using it. You can also protect from remote attacks from NFC readers by using an RFID block card. 

Do NOT throw receipts in the trash 

Most companies don’t print your entire credit card number in your receipts anymore, however, we still recommend shredding your receipts and other documents that could contain sensitive information.

Keep the amount of personal information in your wallet or handbag to a MINIMUM 

Losing a wallet or handbag is bad enough without the stress of having to worry about criminals posting your personal information onto the Dark Web.

Remember that criminals can also access the information on your RFID enabled cards and identifications even when they are on your person. Make sure you are keeping your info secure with a Pocket Shield. 

Make sure to diversify your passwords

 Having multiple passwords avoids hackers gaining access to all your information if they acquire one of them.

Consider using two-factor authentication (2FA)

 Having more than one password as a security measure makes a big difference when it comes to protecting your identity. You can have a 2FA code sent directly to your phone which you then use to open your account.

Update your devices

 Make sure to keep all your devices updated. Hackers will exploit any weakness they can find in your system.

Stick to what you know

Stick with sites and companies you have used before and are familiar with. Some unknown sites may try and lure you in by claiming they still carry this year’s “hot” item when in reality they are a scam.

Use secure sites

Try and use websites that have SSL (secure socket layer). The URL will start with https:// rather than just http://

Use a Credit Report service 

If you check your credit report regularly, you’ll soon notice if something looks unusual. This could be a sign someone has stolen your identity and is using it to apply for credit.

Even with all these precautions, there will always be factors out of your control. With companies such as Yahoo, Equifax and Uber suffering huge data breaches there is a lingering chance your information will end up on the Dark Web regardless of what safety nets you put in place. For this reason, it is still important to monitor your information through our Dark Web Scan.