Credential monitoring is a cybersecurity practice that involves continuously tracking and detecting the theft, exposure, or misuse of user credentials such as usernames and passwords. This process often employs automated tools and dark web surveillance to identify when credentials have been leaked, sold, or discussed on illicit forums. Organizations use credential monitoring to proactively alert users or administrators when their login information is compromised, enabling them to take immediate action such as resetting passwords or implementing additional security measures. This helps prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and identity theft, reducing the risk of further exploitation by cybercriminals. Effective credential monitoring is a key component of a comprehensive security strategy.