The best budget VPN has developed a free tool to protect against data leaks.
Surfshark has launched its data leak checker as a standalone website.
During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Surfshark has launched a new free tool to help users monitor the security of their personal information. This new service, known as Data Leak Checker, allows individuals to check if their email address has been exposed through data leaks.
To use this tool, simply visit the website and provide your email. The system will then conduct an analysis across multiple online sources to detect potential leaks related to databases and malware. This service is powered by Surfshark Alert, a data leak detection system that is part of the Surfshark One security package.
The increase in data breaches has been alarming, with constant reports flooding the media. In 2024, a notable event known as the "mother of all data breaches" compromised up to 26 billion records, setting a new record. Also in August, a supply chain cyberattack affected the medical data of nearly 400,000 patients in the United States. According to statistics, around 18 billion user accounts have been leaked globally over the last 20 years.
Kornelija Vanage, product manager for Alert at Surfshark, emphasizes the importance of recognizing when and where personal information has been compromised. The Data Leak Checker tool aims to simplify this task, ensuring that anyone, regardless of their technical knowledge, can protect their data. After scanning, a report will be generated that details the compromised domains and databases that may have affected the user, as well as potential vulnerabilities associated with malware.
For security reasons, some data may not be visible in the report, and access to more detailed information requires a subscription to the premium Surfshark Alert service. This system provides real-time notifications about any leaks related to the user's personal information, as well as protection against identity theft and password vulnerabilities.
If the report indicates a leak, it is recommended to act quickly. Experts suggest changing the passwords of affected accounts, using complex combinations and employing a password manager to facilitate the process. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication is advised, as it provides an extra layer of security against unauthorized access. Reviewing account activity is also crucial to detect any suspicious transactions.
Finally, Surfshark warns about the possibility of phishing attempts, as attackers may leverage leaked emails to carry out further scams in the future.
