Here’s What Your Data Sells for on the Dark Web

How Much Is Your Personal Information Sold for on the Dark Web?

Not all personal information is valued the same on the dark web. Prices can vary based on demand, how complete the data is and how easily it can be monetized by criminals.

Here's a breakdown of what your personal details might go for on underground marketplaces, according to the Dark Web Price Index by Privacy Affairs.

Source: Privacy Affairs

Learn more: What Is the Dark Web?

Can You Remove Your Information From the Dark Web?

Once your information is on the dark web, there's no way to fully remove it. That's because data sold or shared in these underground networks is quickly copied, redistributed and stored across multiple anonymous platforms.

Unlike legitimate websites, the dark web isn't governed by takedown policies or centralized control, making it nearly impossible to track or erase your data completely.

How to Protect Your Personal Information From Fraud

Although there's nothing you can do to erase your personal details from the dark web once it's been stolen, there are steps you can take to safeguard your information and take proactive steps to know what may be out there already:

• Use strong, unique passwords. Weak or reused passwords make it easier for hackers to access multiple accounts once they've stolen your credentials. Using a password manager can help you generate and store secure passwords.
• Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification, such as a text code or authentication app, before granting access to your account.
• Be cautious on public Wi-Fi networks. Avoid entering sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks. If you must use one, connect through a trusted virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data.
• Regularly monitor financial accounts. Check your bank and credit card statements frequently to catch unauthorized charges early. The faster you spot suspicious activity, the quicker you can act.
• Limit your online sharing. Be mindful of what you post on social media or enter into online forms. Hackers can use details like your birthday or hometown to guess passwords or security questions.
• Get a free dark web scan. Experian's dark web scan searches known dark web data sources to check if your Social Security number, email address or phone number has been compromised, alerting you to possible exposure.
• Request a free personal privacy scan. Experian's personal privacy scan identifies which people search websites may be listing your personal details, such as your home address, age, phone number and relatives—and offers steps to remove them.

Learn more: Ways to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

What to Do if Your Information Is Found on the Dark Web

If you've found out through a scan or an identity theft event that your personal details are on the dark web, here are some steps you can take to limit the damage:

• Place a fraud alert on your credit reports. You have the right to place a fraud alert on your credit file, which instructs potential lenders to verify your identity before extending credit. An initial fraud alert lasts one year, with the option to renew, while an extended fraud alert—designed for confirmed identity theft victims—lasts for seven years. If you place a fraud alert with one of the three national consumer credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion or Equifax), the other two will be notified and will add fraud alerts to those reports as well.
• Freeze your credit. You also have the right to freeze your credit, which prevents new accounts from being opened in your name and offers a strong layer of protection against further identity theft. However, you'll need to unfreeze your credit reports with each credit bureau every time you want to apply for credit.
• Change passwords. If your login credentials were exposed, update your passwords immediately and turn on MFA for extra protection.
• Monitor your accounts closely. Keep an eye on bank, credit card and investment accounts for unusual activity. Report suspicious transactions right away to minimize potential losses.
• Use an identity theft protection service. Consider enrolling in an identity protection service, which may include credit monitoring, dark web surveillance, insurance and dedicated fraud resolution support.
• Contact your financial institutions. If a specific account or service was compromised, such as your bank or credit card account, alert the company right away so they can help secure your account or issue new credentials.
• Report the identity theft. If you believe your identity has been stolen, file a report at IdentityTheft.gov. You'll receive a recovery plan and documentation to support any disputes.

Learn more: What Are the Unexpected Costs of Identity Theft?

The Bottom Line

Once your personal information hits the dark web, it's nearly impossible to remove it. But while you can't undo a data breach, you can take control of what happens next. From strengthening your digital habits to setting up fraud alerts and monitoring your accounts, small steps can make a big difference.

Experian's free credit monitoring service is one easy way to stay alert. It tracks changes to your credit report and helps you spot potential identity theft early, so you're not the last to know when something goes wrong.