Hearing that your personal data has been “leaked” is one thing. Finding out it’s being sold on the dark web is another. Criminals trade stolen Social Security numbers, bank details, and login credentials in hidden online marketplaces — often for just a few dollars. But the damage to you can cost thousands.
Here’s what you need to do immediately if your information ends up for sale in these hidden corners of the internet.
1. Confirm the Breach
Check with your bank, credit card company, or any company that recently reported a data breach. You can also use reputable tools like HaveIBeenPwned.com to see if your email or passwords were exposed.
2. Change All Affected Passwords Immediately
If criminals have your login details, they may try “credential stuffing” — using your password across multiple sites. Use:
- Strong, unique passwords for each account
- A password manager to store them securely
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible
3. Monitor Your Financial Accounts Closely
Check your bank, credit card, and PayPal statements daily for suspicious charges. Many banks let you set up instant transaction alerts.
4. Freeze Your Credit
A credit freeze is one of the most powerful tools to stop new accounts from being opened in your name. It’s free to place and remove at all three major credit bureaus.
5. Watch for Targeted Scams
Once your information is sold, you might get more phishing emails, fake debt collection calls, or even SIM swap attempts. Always verify the source before clicking links or giving out information.
6. Know Your Legal Rights
If the data sale happened because a company failed to secure your information, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. A consumer rights attorney can:
- Investigate the breach source
- Hold the company accountable
- Seek compensation for damages, lost wages, and emotional distress
Final Thoughts
Having your personal information sold on the dark web is more than a privacy concern — it’s a direct threat to your financial security and peace of mind. The longer it stays exposed, the greater the risk of identity theft, fraudulent accounts, and targeted scams. Acting quickly to secure your accounts, freeze your credit, and monitor suspicious activity can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major financial disaster.
If your data was leaked because a company failed to protect it, you have legal options. LawPoint helps victims of data breaches and dark web exposure hold negligent companies accountable, recover damages, and restore their sense of control. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Contact The Barry Law Office Today
Peter F. Barry, Attorney at Law
The Barry Law Office, Ltd
Office: (612) 379-8800
Email: pbarry@lawpoint.com
Licensed in Minnesota, Oregon, and Wisconsin.