The Dark Web and Your Social Security Number
Contact the three credit reporting agencies and ask them to place fraud alerts and a credit freeze on your accounts. Similar to getting a credit card, an identity thief could use your SSN and other personal information and ID to open a bank account. They may use it to deposit illegal funds or make big withdrawals that you’ll be held responsible for. I’ve already covered the infamous Equifax scandal at the beginning of this article. However, data breaches happen every day, especially with phishing being on an absolute spree since COVID-19 started. This way, personal information held in “safe” databases can escape into the dark web where cybercriminals trade and exploit it for personal gain.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines, making it an elusive and often dangerous place for the unsuspecting user. One of the significant concerns regarding the dark web social security number trade is its implications for personal identity and security.
They sell your data on the dark web, which might be later used to initiate spam attacks, among other things. Tax identity theft is also known as Stolen Identity Refund Fraud (SIRF) and, while not as common as financial identity theft, still costs people millions of dollars every year. The dark web is a hidden network of unregulated websites that often provides anonymity as well as access to illegal goods and information.
What is the Dark Web?
If enough elements are exposed, it can quickly result in identity theft, making it vital that any personal information is protected from unauthorized access or disclosure. Once a hacker has your social, he or she can commit all kinds of identity fraud – it doesn’t stop at bank accounts. And unfortunately for the victim, sorting out identity theft is terribly complex.
If your account numbers appear on the dark web, check your account statements carefully. If there is any questionable activity on your accounts, notifying the financial institution right away may absolve you of liability for fraudulent charges. Offer pros and cons are determined by our editorial team, based on independent research. The banks, lenders, and credit card companies are not responsible for any content posted on this site and do not endorse or guarantee any reviews. You can check to see where your information appears with a free dark web scan. And while there might not be a simple way to get your information removed from the dark web, you can take measures to protect your accounts and identity.
Unfortunately, password databases are frequently involved in data leaks. Although most databases have become outdated, many people use the same passwords for multiple accounts. This means a data breach from five years ago can be used to defraud you if you reuse the same password.
The darknet has become a digital marketplace where much of the stolen data we hear about ends up. In a recent expose, the data from the online accounts of 617 million individuals were found up for sale on the darknet. Furthermore, the sellers on the Dark Web are often anonymous and untrustworthy. There is no guarantee that the SSN you purchase will be valid or not already flagged as stolen or compromised. In many cases, the SSNs offered for sale on the Dark Web are either fake or belong to unsuspecting victims. Using such information can lead to severe consequences, such as financial liabilities, damaged credit history, and legal complications.
- This led to the creation of the Tor Browser, which was originally developed to protect the identity of secret agents.
- You’ll then receive a personalized plan with the next steps you can take based on what was stolen.
- In this article, we’ll explain how your information ends up on the Dark Web, how to know if your SSN has been compromised, and what you can do to protect yourself online.
- As identity thieves continue to evolve their methods for obtaining personal information, protecting your Social Security number is vital to protecting your identity.
Agencies like the IRS generally won’t make unsolicited calls asking for personal information like your SSN. This extra layer of security double-checks your identity when signing into an online account. You enter your password as usual and a unique six-digit, one-time code is sent to a trusted device via text. This added step can help improve the security of your personal information.
The dark web refers to websites that require specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. Unlike the surface web and deep web, which can be accessed by standard browsers, the dark web utilizes various anonymity tools, primarily Tor (The Onion Router).
How Social Security Numbers are Exposed
Close Any New Accounts Opened In Your Name
Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are vital pieces of personal information that can be sold and traded on the dark web. There are several reasons why SSNs often end up for sale:
- Data breaches from corporations and organizations.
- Phishing attacks that trick individuals into providing personal information.
- Identity theft where criminals hijack someone’s identity.
Risks of Having Your SSN on the Dark Web
If your social security number appears on the dark web, there are multiple risks you may face:
- Identity Theft: Criminals can open bank accounts, apply for loans, or commit fraud in your name.
- Financial Loss: If unauthorized accounts are created, it may take time to resolve the situation, causing potential financial damage.
- Credit Score Damage: Missing payment due dates or accumulating debt from fraudulent activities can significantly lower your credit score.
How to Protect Your Social Security Number
Being proactive is essential when it comes to safeguarding your social security number. Here are some tips to protect your SSN from ending up on the dark web:
- Limit Sharing: Only provide your SSN when it is absolutely necessary.
- Monitor Credit Reports: Regularly review your credit reports for any suspicious activity.
- Use Identity Theft Protection Services: Consider investing in services that monitor the dark web and alert you if your personal information appears.
What to Do if Your SSN is Compromised
If you discover that your SSN is compromised or found on the dark web, follow these steps:
- Place a Fraud Alert: Contact one of the three major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report.
- Freeze Your Credit: Consider freezing your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
- Report Identity Theft: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your local law enforcement.
- Monitor Financial Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit accounts for unauthorized transactions.
FAQs About Dark Web and Social Security Numbers
Q: How do I know if my Social Security Number is on the dark web?
A: There are services that monitor the dark web and can alert you if your SSN appears on illicit marketplaces.
Q: Can I recover my identity if my SSN is stolen?
A: Yes, it may take effort, such as working with law enforcement and credit bureaus, but recovery is possible.
Q: What are the signs of identity theft?
A: Signs include receiving unfamiliar credit cards or bank statements, being denied credit unexpectedly, or seeing unfamiliar charges on your accounts.
In conclusion, protecting your social security number from exposure on the dark web is crucial. By taking preventive measures and being aware of the signs of identity theft, you can safeguard yourself from potential threats.
