A new website, DataBreach.com, is offering a comprehensive tool for individuals to check if their personal information has been compromised in a data breach. Developed by Atlas Privacy, a company specializing in data removal services, DataBreach.com provides an alternative to the popular Have I Been Pwned service.
Unlike Have I Been Pwned, which primarily focuses on email address searches, DataBreach.com allows users to search using various personal identifiers, including full name, physical address, phone number, Social Security number, IP address, and username. This expanded search functionality reflects the evolving nature of data breaches, which increasingly involve a wider range of personal information.
DataBreach.com leverages Atlas Privacy’s vast database of over 17.5 billion records compiled from various sources, including online forums and leaked databases. This extensive repository allows users to check their exposure across a wide range of data breaches.
To ensure user privacy, DataBreach.com employs a hashing technique that avoids storing sensitive information on its servers. Instead, the site compares a hash (a unique fingerprint) of the user’s information with its database, performing the comparison locally on the user’s device.
DataBreach.com is also indexing databases that may not be included in Have I Been Pwned, such as a recent breach involving fashion retailer Hot Topic. This dedication to expanding breach notifications provides users with a more comprehensive view of their online security.
While both DataBreach.com and Have I Been Pwned offer valuable services, they cater to different needs. Have I Been Pwned focuses on email-based searches and maintains a global user base, while DataBreach.com provides more advanced search options and caters primarily to US consumers due to its inclusion of Social Security number searches.
It’s important to note that data removal services, while helpful, cannot guarantee the complete removal of personal information from the internet. Once data is leaked and circulated online, it can be challenging to control its spread.
DataBreach.com offers a valuable tool for individuals concerned about their online privacy and security. Its advanced search capabilities and extensive database provide a comprehensive way to check for potential data breaches. While no service can guarantee complete protection, DataBreach.com empowers users to take control of their personal information and stay informed about potential risks.
