Just how do Credentials land up on the Dark Web?

Business email credentials can be leaked onto the dark web through various methods, each representing a significant security and reputational risk for individuals and organizations.

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Here's a breakdown of the common ways these credentials find their way into the darker corners of the internet:

1. Phishing Attacks: These are deceptive techniques used to trick employees into revealing their login information. Attackers might send emails that appear to be from trusted sources, such as a bank or even an internal department, asking the recipient to click on a link and enter their credentials into a fake login page.

2. Data Breaches: When a company's data is compromised due to a cybersecurity attack or system vulnerability, the harvested data, including email credentials, may be sold or shared on dark web forums. These breaches can affect businesses of all sizes and often involve large volumes of user data.

3. Malware and Ransomware: Malicious software can be inadvertently installed on an employee's computer or a company server. This software is designed to steal information, including email credentials, and send it back to the attacker. Ransomware attacks can also involve the threat of releasing stolen data, including email credentials, onto the dark web unless a ransom is paid.

4. Credential Stuffing: In this scenario, attackers use previously breached or leaked credentials to gain unauthorized access to accounts. Since people often reuse passwords across multiple services, hackers can automate attempts to log into various platforms, including business email systems, using these known credentials.

5. Insider Threats: Sometimes, the leak may come from within the organization. Disgruntled or malicious employees might intentionally share sensitive information, including their own or others' email credentials, on the dark web.

6. Accidental Sharing: Employees might accidentally share their credentials through insecure means, like messaging apps or emails, that are intercepted by cybercriminals. Or they might use weak passwords that are easily guessed or cracked and subsequently shared.

Once on the dark web, these credentials can be bought and used by other cybercriminals to commit fraud, launch further phishing campaigns, steal company data, or even infiltrate corporate networks for espionage or sabotage.