How to Use the Data Breach Search Engine
Learn how to search and analyze potential breach exposures using DigitalStakeout's Data Breach Search Engine. Step-by-step guide for selectors, workflows, and results.
How to Use the Data Breach Search Engine
This guide walks through using DigitalStakeout’s Data Breach Search Engine to investigate potential data breaches and sensitive information exposures across the surface, deep, and dark web.
Supported Data Types
You can search breach exposures using the following selectors:
- Bitcoin Address — Trace mentions or leaked wallets.
- Credit Card Number — Identify exposed credit card patterns.
- Domain — Look for breaches tied to your domain or assets.
- Email Address — Detect email exposures in leak repositories.
- Ethereum Address, IBAN, MAC Address, etc.
- Phone Number, SSN, UUID, URLs, and more.
Note: The selector type is automatically detected when inputting search values.
Getting Started
🔐 Authorization Requirements
Access to breach data is subject to compliance with DigitalStakeout’s Terms of Use and MSA. Unauthorized or personal searches are prohibited.
🧭 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Log In to your DigitalStakeout account.
- Navigate to the “Data Breach Search” module from the Start Page.
- Enter Selector (e.g., email, domain, SSN).
- Run Search — results may take up to 1 minute to load.
Interpreting the Results
Results include structured breach metadata:
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Breach ID | Internal ID for breach record |
| Source | Origin of the breach (e.g., Tor, paste) |
| File | Filename where data was located |
| Updated | Last indexed timestamp |
| Sample | Sanitized excerpt of leaked content |
For access to full, unsanitized records, contact support.
Data Source Coverage
DigitalStakeout’s breach index spans multiple dark and open web sources:
- Tor (.onion) hidden services
- I2P and decentralized web
- Public & private breach dumps
- WikiLeaks and political disclosures
- Pastebin-type sites
- Malware bot logs (e.g., Azorult)
- Usenet discussions and niche sources
Usage Best Practices
✔️ Use Specific Input – Precision yields better matches.
✔️ Monitor Regularly – Schedule recurring checks for high-risk selectors.
✔️ Stay Compliant – Avoid personal or unauthorized lookups.
✔️ Threat Awareness – Use insights to adjust other monitoring strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
🕒 How often is the database updated?
Records are updated regularly with vetting cycles for source integrity.
📊 How large is the breach index?
As of 09/13/2023, over 121 billion breach records are indexed.
⚙️ Can I automate these searches?
Yes. XTI Monitor premium accounts can automate breach detection workflows.
Looking for feature details, use cases, or pricing?
Visit the Data Breach Search Engine overview on our main site.
Updated 5 days ago