Have you ever wondered where your data ended up after so many online registrations? Emails, passwords, social security numbers, cards... It's increasingly common to hear that a website has been hacked and that millions of users have had their information leaked. The problem is that we don't always know if we've been affected. But the truth is that there are reliable websites that reveal if your data has been leaked on the internet - and you can check it right now.

How do I know if my data has been leaked?

The first thing to understand is that most leaks happen without warning. You don't get an official email saying "your data is on the dark web", for example. Usually, this only comes to light when the problem is already too big - someone has cloned your WhatsApp, your card has been misused or you notice a strange transaction at the bank.

But there are tools that work as trackers. They cross-reference known leaks and compare them with your email address or phone number. If there's a match, you'll know right away. It's as simple as that.

Reliable sites for checking data leaks

Below, you'll learn about the main websites used around the world to identify whether your personal information is being circulated. And the best part: they're all free for basic use.

1# Have I Been Pwned
Perhaps the most famous of all. Just go to haveibeenpwned.comJust enter your e-mail address and it will show you if that e-mail address has ever been involved in a data leak. It also tells you which company the leak came from (such as Dropbox, LinkedIn, Canva, etc.) and what was exposed - password, name, location, etc.

2# Firefox Monitor
Another excellent feature. It's a project by Mozilla, the same company that created the Firefox browser. It's based on "Have I Been Pwned", but with an even more user-friendly interface. By entering your e-mail address, you receive a report with the associated leaks and can even create an alert to be notified in the event of new leaks.

3# AmIBreached (Brazil)
A Brazilian site that also scans your e-mail address or CPF. Although it is less well known, it can identify local databases that the international ones don't pick up. It's worth reinforcing your verification.

4# LeakCheck
For more advanced users, LeakCheck allows you to search by e-mail, CPF, phone number and even IP. The free version shows if there are any leaks, and the paid version provides more complete details. Ideal for those who want to monitor more professionally.

What do you do if you find out your data has been leaked?

Finding your e-mail address or social security number on one of these lists is frightening. But calm down, it doesn't mean that your life is at immediate risk. It means that you need to act now to avoid future problems. Here's what to do:

1# Change your passwords immediately
Start with the services where the leak occurred. Then change the passwords for other sites where you used the same combination. If possible, use a password manager to create strong and different combinations for each account.

2# Activate two-step verification
It adds an extra layer of security. Even if someone discovers your password, they will still need a code sent to their cell phone or authentication app. Nowadays, almost all platforms offer this feature.

3# Beware of suspicious emails and messages
Those who have your data may try to apply more elaborate scams. E-mails with your name, social security number or personal information do not mean that they are legitimate. Always be suspicious, check the sender and never click on links if you're not sure.

4# Monitor your bank account frequently
If your bank details are among those leaked, keep an eye out for any strange movements. Any unusual amount is grounds for contacting the bank and immediately blocking the card or account.

5# Consider filing a virtual police report
If the information leaked is sensitive - such as CPF, RG, full address - it is possible to file a BO online. This helps in the event of future fraud and shows that you have taken preventative measures.

What if my CPF is circulating on the internet?

This is one of the worst scenarios. The CPF is the key to opening accounts, making purchases, applying for loans and much more. A criminal with this number in their hands can do a lot of damage. Ideally:

  • Enter the Serasa or Boa Vista SCPC and check if your CPF has already been used in any credit attempt;
  • Activate CPF monitoring, a service offered by platforms such as Serasa and SPC Brasil;
  • Keep an eye on Positive registrationbecause it also shows credit transactions associated with your CPF.

How can you protect yourself against new leaks?

There is no guaranteed 100% protection. But you can greatly reduce the risks with a few simple precautions:

  • Avoid using the same personal e-mail address for everything. Have a secondary e-mail for quick registrations and less reliable sites.
  • Never reuse passwords. Once leaked, it becomes a master key.
  • Prefer sites with https (the padlock in the browser bar). They encrypt the data.
  • Read the permissions before accepting cookies and privacy policies - it may surprise you.
  • Never share your CPF and cell phone number on forms that you don't know the origin of.

Leaked data: the new normal?

Unfortunately, yes. The truth is that almost everyone has had some data exposedand many don't even know it. But knowing and doing nothing is worse. Ignoring this risk today is like leaving your front door wide open, waiting for no one to come in.

You don't need to become a digital paranoid, but you do need to at least inform yourself and take basic steps to protect yourself. Knowing if your data is being circulated is the first step to avoiding losses and, above all, take control of your online security.

The danger is not only on the internet

Many people believe that the problem is only in the virtual world. But leaked data can have very real effects: hacked accounts, names used in fraud, undue negativity, false contracts. The headache is great - and can last for years.

Taking care of your data is part of your responsibility as a digital citizen. And the sooner you realize this, the less chance you have of dealing with serious problems in the future.

See also: Career at McDonalds: What are the opportunities?

April 27th, 2025