The Dark Web’s Role in IoT & OT Cybercrime
It’s not just sci-fi anymore, criminals are buying and selling access to smart factories, power grids, and medical devices… all on the dark web.
What’s the Dark Web?
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that’s not indexed by search engines. You need special browsers like Tor to access it.
What’s Being Sold?
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Access to Industrial Networks
Hackers sell stolen passwords, VPN logins, and even direct access to control systems. -
Exploits for IoT Devices
Want to hack a camera or sensor? Just buy the exploit — no skills needed. -
Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS)
Criminals "rent out" malware tools, complete with help desks and dashboards. -
Stolen Data from OT Systems
Blueprints, SCADA logs, and sensitive production data are up for grabs.
Real-World Example
In 2022, access to a European water facility’s control system was found for sale — with full screenshots showing it was real.
How to Stay Safe
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Monitor for credentials on dark web forums
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Use MFA and strong password policies
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Segment networks to limit damage
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Train staff on phishing and social engineering
Final Thought
The dark web isn’t just for shady chat rooms — it’s a booming black market for industrial cybercrime. Staying ahead means knowing what’s out there.
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