With cybercrime on the rise, it’s important for consumers to take measures to protect their data and information from malicious actors. One way to do this is through the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and other security measures. International law enforcement agencies from 17 countries have just seized one of the world’s largest dark web marketplaces, nicknamed “Operation Cookie Monster”. The site, Genesis Market, had over 80 million stolen credentials from more than 2 million people and was a popular destination for cybercriminals. The site was taken down with the help of the FBI, Dutch National Police, and cybersecurity firm Qintel.

As part of the crackdown, about 120 people have been arrested, with more than 200 searches conducted. It is believed that the Genesis Market site operators are based in Russia.

Genesis Market specialised in the sale of digital products, especially browser fingerprints obtained from computers with malicious software. These fingerprints include credentials, cookies, internet protocol addresses, and other browser or operating system details, which criminals can use to bypass anti-fraud solutions.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) by Okta is one way consumers can protect themselves from stolen credentials being used to access their information. Using two-factor or MFA can add an extra layer of security and make it much harder for criminals to access accounts.

MFA is a method of authentication which requires two or more pieces of evidence to prove the user’s identity. This can be in the form of a password, pin, or biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition. The use of MFA can greatly improve the security of online accounts as it makes it much more difficult for cybercriminals to gain access.

In addition to MFA, there are other measures that consumers can take to improve their security. It is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as phishing and malware, and to take steps to protect against them. This includes using strong passwords, avoiding public Wi-Fi networks, and regularly updating software and applications.

By taking the necessary steps to protect their data and accounts, consumers can help to ensure that their information remains secure. The recent crackdown on the dark web marketplace should serve as a reminder to us all of the importance of cyber security. With the right security measures in place, consumers can help to ensure that their information remains safe and secure.

Or get in contact with the team at okta@ignition-technology.com

By Ignition Technology