Professor Rajiv Kohli's Insights on Protecting Personal Data from the Dark Web
Professor Rajiv Kohli, the John N. Dalton Memorial Professor of Business at William & Mary's Raymond A. Mason School of Business, has made noteworthy contributions to the ongoing discourse on data security. Featured in a recent CNET article titled "Your Personal Data May Be on the Dark Web. Here's How You Can Protect Yourself Against Identity Thieves," Professor Kohli provides insights into the pervasive issue of personal data security, particularly concerning the dark web.
An expert in information systems specializing in data security, especially within the healthcare sector, Kohli's research explores the dark web's complex and often concealed realms. At the Raymond A. Mason School of Business, Kohli and his research colleagues employ sophisticated methodologies, including specialized servers and permissions, to demonstrate to students a practical understanding of how the dark web operates. This immersive approach enhances academic learning and prepares future business leaders to navigate the intricate landscape of cybersecurity.
In the CNET article, Kohli highlights a critical aspect of internet security that many users may overlook: the dark web is an underbelly of the Internet that most people never encounter, yet it harbors a substantial amount of stolen personal information. Kohli aptly describes the dark web as a dangerous environment where criminal activities flourish, including identity theft, financial fraud, and even human trafficking. "The safest bet is to assume that at least some of your information is on the dark web," Kohli asserts, emphasizing that while individuals should be aware of this possibility, actively seeking or attempting to remove one's information from the dark web is fraught with complications and risks.
Drawing an analogy to a crowded airport where one's actions are inconspicuous yet potentially monitored, Kohli explains that data on the dark web is similarly elusive. "Imagine you are at a crowded airport, and there are hundreds of people walking there. You would have no idea if someone's taking your picture as you walk by," he illustrates. This metaphor underscores the unpredictable nature of data exposure on the dark web—individuals are often unaware of the misuse of their information until it manifests in a harmful way.
Professor Kohli also identifies several indicators that one's personal information may have been compromised. He points to unsolicited emails, unfamiliar text messages, unexpected credit card charges, and difficulties accessing bank accounts as red flags of potential data breaches. These symptoms, Kohli notes, may indicate that one's personal details have been obtained from the dark web, where stolen information is traded for as little as five cents per item.
To mitigate the risk of falling victim to identity theft, Kohli advocates for proactive measures in online security. He advises adopting practices akin to locking one's car to deter thieves: implementing multifactor authentication, regularly updating passwords, using distinct passwords for different financial accounts, and monitoring accounts for unusual activity. "It's not that thieves cannot still break into your car; it's that it's too much work, so they will move on to the next car," Kohli explains. By applying similar principles to digital security, individuals can make their information less attractive to cybercriminals.
Professor Kohli's research and guidance have been instrumental in ensuring the Raymond A. Mason School of Business's commitment to advancing knowledge in cybersecurity and preparing students to confront emerging challenges in the digital landscape. His expertise continues to be a valuable resource for understanding and addressing the intricate issues surrounding data security and the dark web.
