In today’s digital world, data breaches have become a common occurrence. We read about them everywhere, from major corporations to small businesses, and the consequences are far-reaching. What’s even more alarming is that most of us don’t know what happens to our stolen information.
To put it simply, the majority of the time, the stolen data is resold on the dark web. This marketplace is a seedy underbelly of the internet where you can buy anything from drugs to hitmen to personal information. It’s easily accessible through the TOR browser, but be warned, it’s not for the faint of heart.
So, what’s the price tag on your personal information? It’s not a straightforward answer, but credit card information can sell for as low as $5 and as high as $30 per record. The value of bank account credentials varies based on the average balance, ranging from $190 to $900. These amounts may not seem like much, but when hackers breach a system, they steal as much data as possible, often resulting in millions of customer records. The numbers add up quickly, and the hackers are making a fortune off of our stolen information.
It’s crucial to understand that your personal information is worth more than you realize. It’s essential to guard your information and take necessary precautions to ensure your data remains safe. Digital marketing strategies should also take this into account, emphasizing the importance of security measures and protecting consumer data. The stakes are high, and the consequences are severe, making it critical for both individuals and businesses to take the necessary steps to safeguard against data breaches. Many companies rely on a local IT services company to handle network security and employee security training.
