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New way criminals are getting your info on the "dark web"

Posted at 6:24 AM, Sep 18, 2018
and last updated 2018-09-18 09:40:56-04

MILWAUKEE -- Consumers are getting better at protecting their basic information, and cybercriminals know it.

The hottest thing on the dark web these days, are accounts you may not give a second thought to.

We have learned cybercriminals are looking at apps you are using, like ridesharing or even dating sites, to find out more information about you. Then, they will try to make you fall for their scams.

Dark web cyber crimes are expected to cost the world $6 trillion annually by 2021.

Better Business Bureau Serving Wisconsin's Lisa Schiller warns criminals are targeting smaller accounts to try to not set off anti-fraud alerts. All they really need, is your email address, to get you to click on a phishing scam.

"To contact you to gain more trust and gain more information such as your credit card numbers," said Schiller, "They use those credit card numbers they buy and sell on the dark web."

Schiller says it best to assume your email is out there. Stay a step ahead by questioning everything in your inbox.

Schiller warns to keep a close eye on all of your bank accounts. Keep your passwords complex.

Look for small transactions. She says the scammer will try for a bigger transaction later.