Dark Web Monitoring is a feature within Avast Secure Identity that scans hard‑to‑access websites and forums on the dark web for personal information. This is important because identity thieves may buy or sell exposed data and use it for fraudulent or illegal activities.

Refer to the table below to see the types of information monitored by Dark Web Monitoring and the actions you can take to help secure your data if it is exposed.

Monitored information

Secure your data

If you received a Dark Web Notification on any of the below information, here are some next steps to help protect yourself:

• Username: Consider changing your username and the passwords linked to it.
• Password / Password Combo List: Change your relevant passwords. For more information, refer to the following article: Learn more about Password Combo List notification.
• Email: Consider changing your username/password linked to the email.
• Phone number: If applicable, register your phone number on the national do-not-call registry (US only). You can also contact your service provider to block calls from suspicious numbers.
• Insurance information: Identity thieves can use any of your insurance information to submit false claims for various categories, such as medical, car, life, home, or pet
  • Ensure you always review your insurance claims and bills.
  • Look out for medical or other insurance collection notices on your credit report that you do not recognize or from your health plan saying you reached your benefits limit.
• Gamer tag: Change your relevant passwords. Always try using a different password and gamer tag for each gaming platform.
• Credit Card / CVV or CCV: Contact your credit or debit card company for a replacement card and monitor your activity closely. Report any suspicious activity to your financial institution immediately.
• Passport: Contact your local passport office to file a complaint. You can also apply for a replacement passport.
• Medical Record Number (MRN): This is a unique number found on your patient ID and can help you track your medical history (diagnosis, treatments, test results).(US only).
• Medical Beneficiary Identifier (MBI): Also known as the Medicare Number. It is a unique number found on your Medicare card (US only).
• National Provider Identifier (NPI): A 10-digit numeric identifier managed by HIPAA for healthcare providers.(US only).

General tips:

• Remove mail from your mailbox right away. You can also request a mail hold.
• Consider setting up a locked mailbox to decrease the risk of stolen mail.
• Shred anything that has personal information.
• Opt for paperless delivery whenever possible and practical.
• Set up two-factor authentication.

Further Recommendations

• Received a notification that my information was found on the Dark Web
• Update Personal and Financial Information with Avast
• Dark Web Monitoring in Avast Secure Identity – FAQs

Updated on: 09/07/2026