Cybercrime forums on the dark web serve as the primary channels for attackers to obtain leaked databases. These forums foster entire communities that trade stolen data and collaborate on illegal activities, from developing exploits to stealing sensitive information. Users often gain access to hacking tools and tutorials, helping less experienced cybercriminals. Many of these forums operate with encryption to secure their activities, while some are invite-only.

In this blog, we'll discuss how these forums facilitate the trade of leaked databases and the steps you can take to protect your organization.

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The 4 Most-Targeted Data Types

1. Personal Data

Stolen personal data includes complete identifying information such as names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and birthdates.

This data is highly valued for identity theft and fraud, as it enables cybercriminals to open fraudulent accounts, apply for loans, and commit various forms of social engineering attacks. Many cybercriminals rely on databases of leaked information that circulate stolen records, often found on the dark web or through free hacking forums, making it easier to access and misuse personal information.

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2. Financial Data

Financial data (including credit card numbers, bank account details, and cryptocurrency wallet information) is primarily used for unauthorized transactions and financial fraud. Cybercriminals exploit this data for quick financial gain, often by making fraudulent purchases or draining bank accounts.

3. Username and Password Credentials

Cybercriminals frequently trade usernames and passwords for access to various online platforms such as banking services, social media, and email accounts. These credentials are highly sought after for account takeovers, enabling hackers to access sensitive information or engage in fraud and social engineering attacks.

4. Proprietary and Strategic Information

This type of data is often targeted for corporate espionage or geopolitical gain that includes accessing trade secrets, confidential corporate or government documents, and intellectual property. Cybercriminals may sell or exploit it to undermine competitors or gain an unfair business or strategic advantage.

» Learn more: How scary is that data leak, really?

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4 Reasons Why Cybercriminals Sell Database Leaks

1. Financial gain: The primary motivation for many cybercriminals is financial gain. They often sell the stolen data on specialized dark web marketplaces.
2. Reputation: Hackers may be motivated to increase their reputation within their communities. Sharing knowledge, such as code samples and evidence of successful hacks, can improve a hacker’s status and ranking. Reputation can also translate into profits for sellers, as those with a good reputation are more trustworthy.
3. Political or ideological reasons: Some hackers may leak data to further a political goal. This activity is often associated with hacktivists who may release sensitive information to the public to undermine powerful organizations.
4. Revenge: Some cybercriminals may seek revenge against an individual or organization. Their actions may include compromising important data, such as payroll records, or launching a campaign against company executives.

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5 Most-Popular Database Leaks on the Dark Web



1. DarkForums

DarkForums, originally launched as "DARK4RMY Forums" in 2022, has skyrocketed in activity, with a 600% surge in activity between April 1 and June 30, 2025. It swiftly absorbed much of BreachForums' user base, adopting its design and expanding its reach.

Now operated by the administrators AnonOne and Knox, DarkForums has evolved into a major hub for data leaks, malware distribution, and hacking tools.

2. BreachForums

BreachForums continues to rise as a critical hub for data leaks, breached datasets, credential dumps, and initial access brokers (IABs). Analysts tracking this platform gain immediate insights into corporate data breaches, exposed credentials, and emerging cyber threat trends across multiple sectors.

Recently, BreachForums returned under new leadership but with an unknown identity. The new operator, "N/A", claims the integrity of the site is intact, despite law enforcement confirming previous arrests. The domain was temporarily shut down due to a MyBB vulnerability and a domain suspension, leading to debates around the forum's current credibility.

3. LeakBase 

Launched in 2021, LeakBase specializes in data leaks. This forum has quickly gained traction and is now considered one of the top destinations for cybercriminals looking to buy, share, or sell sensitive data.

4. Exploit.In

A prominent Russian-speaking and consistently active forum, specialized in the sale of network access, data leaks, exploits, and malware. Exploit.In continues to be a major marketplace where cybercriminals trade high-value assets, including credentials and zero-day exploits, directly influencing ransomware and espionage attacks.

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5. XSS

One of the leading Russian-language forums for trading malware, exploits, and hosting discussions around hacking methods. Known for attracting experienced threat actors, monitoring activities here is crucial to understanding trends in malware development, ransomware operations, and underground collaborations.

Europol claims that the suspected administrator of XSS[.] was arrested in Ukraine on July 22, 2025, as part of a coordinated operation between Ukrainian law enforcement, French police, and Europol. The arrest is reported to stem from a criminal investigation launched in 2021 by the Paris public prosecutor’s office, which uncovered evidence linking the individual to large-scale cybercriminal activity and ransomware operations generating at least USD 7 million in illicit profits.

» Learn how leaked credentials differ from compromised accounts

Industries at High Risk for Database Leaks

• Financial institutions: Banks and fintech companies are prime targets due to the significant financial gain from accessing customer banking information. This data is frequently traded on dark web forums, offering cybercriminals the opportunity to exploit it for unauthorized transactions and fraud.
• Technology companies: Both software and hardware companies are vulnerable to attacks aimed at stealing intellectual property. Cybercriminals target these companies to obtain valuable information that can provide a competitive edge or be sold on the Black Market.
• Government agencies: Government agencies are common targets for espionage, information theft, and political disruption. Leaked government data, often found on dark web forums, can be used to undermine national security or for political manipulation.
• Healthcare sector: Healthcare organizations contain vast amounts of patient data, making them prime targets for identity theft and fraud. Stolen healthcare data is sold or exploited for financial gain, contributing to a thriving underground market for leaked databases.

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Steps to Prevent Database Leaks

1. Implement multi-layered security: Organizations should prioritize adopting a multi-layered security approach to safeguard against potential data breaches and ensure strong protection for sensitive information.
2. Apply patches rapidly: Timely application of patches is crucial, particularly when considering the evolving threat landscape.
3. Review application permissions: Regularly reviewing and tightening access controls and application permissions can prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
4. Monitor network activity: Continuous monitoring of network activities and user behavior helps in detecting unusual activities early.
5. Encrypt data: Encrypting sensitive data and enforcing strict policies on USB and other hardware use helps to reduce data exposure risks.
6. Use data loss prevention tools: Data loss prevention (DLP) tools can detect potential database leaks.
7. Establish a monitoring team: For better monitoring of the deep and dark web, having a dedicated team focused on threat response is essential for protecting against leaks.
8. Partner with the right platform: While these steps might seem overwhelming, you can simplify the process by partnering with a platform that monitors the dark web for mentions of your brand on your behalf, such as KELA Cyber.

» Understand how threat actors breach and exploit your data

How KELA Cyber Helps Organizations Monitor Leaked Databases

CTI platforms like KELA Cyber are invaluable for organizations looking to monitor cyber threats, including leaked databases, across underground forums. KELA’s platform provides you with a comprehensive situational overview, tracking a vast array of forums where sensitive data is exchanged. By identifying and correlating threat actors with specific events, KELA can help respond proactively to incidents, safeguarding against potential financial or reputational damage.

This service keeps you informed and strengthens your digital security posture, ensuring you know how to find leaked databases before cybercriminals can exploit them.

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