How Thieves Use the Dark Web to Find Their Next Target – And What You Can do About it

In today’s digital world, criminals don’t always rely on physical break-ins – increasingly they’re using online tools, leaked data, and the “dark web” to find vulnerabilities before they even step foot near a property.

The dark web – a hidden part of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines – is a hub for cybercriminals, hackers, and data thieves. Stolen information, from home addresses and security codes to smart device vulnerabilities, can be bought and sold anonymously, giving criminals an easy way to plan targeted burglaries.

So how does this happen, and more importantly, what can you do to protect yourself? That’s exactly what we’re exploring in this blog.

How criminals use the dark web – and other online means – to target homes

Many people assume that break-ins happen randomly. In reality, some criminals do their research first, and the dark web is a powerful tool for gathering intelligence on potential targets.

1. Buying and Selling Stolen Personal Data

Leaked home addresses, security system details and Wi-Fi credentials can all be found for sale on the dark web. These details often come from:

• Data breaches – If a company you’ve used has suffered a cyberattack, your details may be floating around online
• Phishing scams – Fake emails or texts tricking people into sharing sensitive information
• Hacked smart home devices – Weak passwords or outdated security settings can expose the likes of smart cameras, video doorbells and alarm systems

Criminals don’t need to physically scope out a property anymore – they can buy the information they need with a few clicks.

2. Selling and Swapping Security Weaknesses

Some dark web forums exist solely for sharing security vulnerabilities. Criminals discuss:

• Which home security brands are easiest to disable
• Which neighbourhoods have properties with weak security
• How to exploit common smart home devices and alarm systems

This means that if a particular lock, camera or security system has a known flaw, burglars can learn how to bypass it before even arriving at a property.

3. Tracking Social Media to Identify Targets

You don’t need to be on the dark web for criminals to find out valuable details about your home. Oversharing on social media is another common way thieves pick their targets.

• Posting holiday updates? You’re letting the world know your home is empty
• Sharing new purchases? You’re advertising expensive items inside your house
• Geotagging your location? You’re providing a real-time map of your movements

Cybercriminals don’t just use stolen data – they also piece together publicly available information to plan break-ins.

How to protect your home from cyber-enabled crime

There are steps you can take to prevent your home from becoming a target of digitally-based crime. By securing both your digital and physical security, you can reduce the risk of criminals using online data to compromise your property.

1. Strengthen Your Smart Home Security

If you use smart home security such as smart locks, cameras, or Wi-Fi-connected security devices, make sure they’re properly secured:

• Use strong, unique passwords for all smart home devices
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security
• Regularly update firmware to patch any vulnerabilities
• Disable remote access features you don’t need

A weak security system can work against you if hackers can access it remotely.

Read our guide: Smart Home Security – How to Prevent Hacking

2. Be Careful with Your Online Presence

Protecting your privacy online is just as important as securing your front door.

• Limit what you share on social media – avoid posting about holidays, expensive purchases, or home layouts
• Turn off location tagging – criminals don’t need to know when you’re away
• Keep personal details private – don’t share your home address, security details, or routines in public forums

3. Secure Your Physical Entry Points

Even with digital security, a strong physical security system is essential.

• Upgrade to high-security locks that meet British Standard BS3621
• Install reinforced doors and windows to prevent forced entry
• Use monitored alarm systems that alert emergency services when triggered.
• Invest in high-quality CCTV cameras with off-site storage – so footage isn’t lost if burglars damage the device

Criminals may use online tools to plan their crimes, but physical security measures still make break-ins much harder.

4. Regularly Check If Your Data Has Been Leaked

Many cybercriminals buy stolen data from data breaches.

To check if your details have appeared in public data breaches, you can use online tools such as Have I Been Pwned. Similar services are often included in antivirus or password manager tools that you may be using.

If your information has been leaked:

• Change your passwords immediately
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible
• Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity

Barry Bros Security: Helping You Stay One Step Ahead

In today’s world, home security is no longer just about locks and alarms. Cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit personal data, smart home technology and online habits. That’s why protecting your home requires a combination of digital awareness, and physical security solutions.

At Barry Bros Security, we provide tailored, multi-layered security solutions for homeowners looking to protect themselves from modern threats, including:

• High-security locks and doors to reinforce entry points
• Smart security systems with advanced encryption to prevent hacking
• Monitored alarms and CCTV to provide round-the-clock protection

If you’re concerned about your home’s security, get in touch today or visit our London showroom for face-to-face advice. Our team of experts can help you secure your property against both traditional and cyber-enabled crime.