What is identity monitoring and how does it work?
In short: what is identity monitoring
Identity monitoring keeps an eye on your personal data on the internet and the dark web. If your data is found in suspicious places, you’ll receive an immediate warning so you can take action quickly. Various security packages like Norton, McAfee and NordVPN offer this protection, each with their own name and features.
Everyone knows you need to be careful online, but did you know that your personal information is often easier to find than you might think? Think of your email address, phone number, passwords, or even your national insurance number. Criminals use this kind of data to commit identity fraud. Luckily, there’s a smart solution: identity monitoring.
How does identity monitoring work and what exactly does it do?
Identity monitoring acts like a digital watchdog that constantly checks your personal data—like your email address, phone number or credit card number—on places where it should never appear. This includes hacker forums, leaked databases and the dark web. You enter your details once, and from that moment on, the monitoring service keeps watch over your information day and night.
What happens if your data shows up somewhere? You’ll receive an immediate warning, often with practical advice on what you should do next. This might include changing your passwords, blocking your payment card, or checking your accounts for unusual activity. This helps you prevent criminals from misusing your identity—before real damage is done.
What problems does it solve?
Identity monitoring helps you take action before it’s too late. Many people only discover identity fraud after money has already been stolen from their bank account or they receive strange bills. Thanks to identity monitoring, you get a warning before criminals can actually strike.
It helps you avoid:
- Misuse of your personal data
- Financial loss due to identity fraud
- Unnecessary stress and hassle of restoring your identity
- Problems with online purchases or banking
Different names from different brands
Many security packages offer this feature, but each brand gives it its own name. Here’s a quick overview:
Norton Dark Web Monitoring
At Norton, this feature is called Dark Web Monitoring. Norton continuously scans the dark web for your personal data and sends you an instant warning if your data is found anywhere.
McAfee Identity Monitoring
McAfee calls it Identity Monitoring. This tool also scans the dark web and other risky sources. You receive alerts when suspicious data is found and get tips on how to protect yourself right away.
NordVPN Threat Protection with Dark Web Monitor
With NordVPN, you’ll find a similar feature called Dark Web Monitor, which is part of Threat Protection. This scans leaked databases for your email address, so you’ll quickly know if your data has been exposed.
Which solution suits your situation?
Norton, McAfee and NordVPN each offer their own version of identity monitoring. Which one you choose mainly depends on your needs. Are you looking for a complete security package with extensive protection against viruses and identity theft? Then Norton or McAfee is a great choice. Do you mainly want to improve your online privacy and check if your email address has been leaked? Then NordVPN with Dark Web Monitor offers a straightforward solution.
All three brands are available in our webshop, with extra benefits like free installation service, personalised step-by-step instructions and 7-day-a-week support. This way, you not only get the right software, but also the help you need to get started straight away.
