Tech

A Peek Into The Dark Side Of The Web

Published

4 years ago

September 8, 2020

Now that everything from buying groceries to booking hotels can be done online, it is important to consider the potential risks that arise from being so connected to the world wide web. Are we really as safe as we think we are?

The internet as we know it has only been around for a few decades. As time passes and technology becomes indispensable to our daily activities, we are learning more and more about the online world. Like any other platform out there, there exists another face of the internet that most people are oblivious of — the dark web.

What is the ‘dark web’?

As intimidating as the name sounds, the dark web is still part of the internet, albeit inaccessible through our usual browsers. It functions on overlay networks that are out of reach of cyber authorities. It is the no-mans-land of the internet and a hub for a variety of illegal activities such as the sale of leaked personal information, account passwords, illegal arms and ammunition, and other heinous cybercrimes.

For us, the existence of the dark web and the anonymity of offenders operating through this medium can incite a plethora of questions surrounding our own online security.

Dark web monitoring services

Becoming aware of the dark web can cause us to realise that our personal information is not safe and may be vulnerable to identity theft. We often find ourselves powerless in these situations, due to our shallow understanding of what the dark web is. Large corporations can then harness our apprehension of the dark web to extract profits.

These companies demand huge sums of money as monthly premiums to keep your data safe from the dark web. As attractive as their packages may appear, very little information is shared by these companies about how they operate, leading to some serious misconceptions in regard to internet security and the dark web.

Common misconceptions surrounding the dark web

1. Compromised personal information can be erased permanently from the dark web

Information such as credit card details and account login details cannot be erased once in the dark web domain. Due to the large number of hosts and servers on the dark web, it is practically impossible to locate the information and delete it entirely from the server. However, by knowing exactly what information has been compromised, steps can be taken to prevent further damage.

2. Monitoring services can prevent your data from being sold on the dark web

Software exist that can scan the dark web for the presence of information, and it is recommended that you make use of this. However, no technology can prevent information from being uploaded to the dark web. Internet security companies who promise this are unlikely to be able to deliver on their word.

3. Dark web monitoring services can make you invincible to all breaches

While dark web monitoring services can help you identify a breach of data or alert you to compromised credentials, they cannot keep you safe from fraud. Taking precautions while using online banking services and keeping yourself updated to the developments in the online security sector is also recommended.

Vigilance is important

About 7 million records are compromised and sold on the dark web on a daily basis. At such a high volume, scammers are experts in devising new ways to breach your privacy and compromise your internet security. Companies such as Norton can provide Dark Web Monitoring services that can help alert you to security breaches, however nothing works as well as caution and vigilance. It is important that passwords are changed regularly, and credit card and bank statements monitored and scanned carefully for anomalies that can indicate any breach of information.

Tech

Clarity in Complexity: Dr. Dave Chatterjee’s Gift for Cyber Communication

Published

2 weeks ago

December 9, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo courtesy of Dr. Dave Chatterjee

By Mj Toledo

A sea of confusing technical terms and threats surround people today. Many feel lost, unsure of how to protect themselves online. A distinguished cybersecurity and technology expert, Dr. Dave Chatterjee is teaching people how. He has practiced information technology management since 2001. In this field, which often bewilders outsiders, he combines academic knowledge with practical insights.

About Dr. Dave Chatterjee

The tech figure authored “Cybersecurity Readiness: A Holistic and High-Performance Approach,” which Sage published and readers praise for its thorough and accessible take on cybersecurity preparation.

Additionally, respected publications like USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan Management Review have recognized his work.

“Communicating complex cybersecurity concepts clearly and effectively is essential,” Dr. Dave Chatterjee explains. “I aim to connect technical know-how with practical understanding, making sure important cybersecurity messages reach and impact all stakeholders, from executives to information technology (IT) staff.”

Dr. Dave Chatterjee has received numerous accolades throughout his career. These include the Outstanding Executive Master of Business Administration Professor of the Year award. He has also been named a University of Georgia (UGA) Outstanding Teaching Faculty Honoree.

Before the pandemic, Dr. Dave Chatterjee launched his Technology Roundtable. It features distinguished business leaders, award-winning chief information officers, and other renowned thought leaders. The roundtable covered topics such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, data quality, and cybersecurity.

Aside from his professional pursuits, he is also passionate about youth development. He also engages in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives, offering professional development workshops to K-12 students on topics ranging from making the most of collegiate experiences to safe and responsible use of technology. He also provides summer research opportunities for outstanding high school students, mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Decoding Cybersecurity for All

Dr. Dave Chatterjee believes effective cybersecurity involves people as much as technology. He stresses creating an organization’s security-aware culture, starting with clear, straightforward communication.

“Cybersecurity affects every part of an organization,” Dr. Dave Chatterjee states. “We create a shared sense of responsibility and preparedness by explaining complex ideas in relatable ways.”

This philosophy is evident in his roles, including his position as an adjunct associate professor at Duke University and his past work as a professor at The University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. His skill in explaining technical concepts has made him a popular speaker and advisor across many industries.

The Power of Clear Communication in Cybersecurity

Clear communication in cybersecurity is non-negotiable. As cyber threats become more complex, explaining security concepts clearly and concisely helps organizations better protect themselves.

“Clear communication forms the foundation of a strong cybersecurity strategy,” Dr. Dave Chatterjee emphasizes. “It allows cybersecurity professionals to work with other departments, identify and reduce potential risks, respond well to incidents, and follow regulations and standards.”

This matters especially now, as cybersecurity has become a top priority for company boards. With experts expecting global cybercrime costs to reach $10.5 trillion by 2025, clear explanations of cyber risks and protection strategies help leaders make informed decisions.

Bridging Technology and Human Understanding

Dr. Dave Chatterjee does more than explain technical ideas. He promotes a better grasp of how people factor into cybersecurity, knowing that even the best security systems can fail due to human error or lack of awareness.

His Cybersecurity Readiness Podcast Series has over 70 episodes and listeners in 105 countries. It offers thought-provoking, jargon-free discussions on improving cybersecurity. These discussions cover strategies for individuals, organizations, and nations. This effort shows his advocacy for making cybersecurity knowledge available worldwide.

“The podcast series creates a community where experts, leaders, and practitioners discuss cybersecurity challenges and opportunities,” he notes. “These conversations help build a more informed and resilient digital ecosystem.”

Making Cybersecurity Less Intimidating

With new technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing bringing new challenges and possibilities to cybersecurity, concise communication becomes even more critical.

The tech professional continues to adapt his work in this area. A recent USA Today article, “Dave Chatterjee Drops the Cybersecurity Jargon, Encouraging Proactiveness Rather than Reactiveness,” highlights his ongoing effort to make cybersecurity accessible and actionable for everyone.

“The future of cybersecurity depends on our ability to communicate well across all levels of society,” he concludes. “Promoting a shared understanding of cyber risks and best practices creates a more resilient digital world for everyone.”

The battle for digital security requires more than just advanced technology. It demands clear communication. Dr. Dave Chatterjee’s talent for translating cybersecurity concepts into accessible language turns technical knowledge into practical action.

Undeniably, Dr. Dave Chatterjee’s gift for clarity will remain invaluable, helping create a more secure digital future for everyone.