Social Security Number On Dark Web

What Does Having Your Information On The Dark Web Means?

The Risks of Exposing Your Social Security Number on Dark Web

If you receive a dark web alert, fortunately, it doesn’t mean that someone has already used your data. It just means that it has been found on the dark web, which means that it can be obtained from there. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help prevent damage thieves can cause even if they have stolen your Social Security number. Some might even use your Social Security number to file an income tax return in your name and nab any tax refund you were due. Others may sell your Social Security number to bidders on the dark web. Do not throw your documents, bank statements, or checks out into the trash like they’re useless.

About 36 percent of consumers who have seen ads for “dark web monitoring” incorrectly believe that identity theft services can remove their personal information from the cyber underground marketplace. Sontiq was formed in 2019, when EZShield, the leader in digital identity protection and resolution, acquired IdentityForce, the #1-rated identity theft protection provider for businesses and consumers. In March 2021, Sontiq acquired Cyberscout, the leading cyber products and services provider to the Insurance Industry. Furthermore, there is a thriving underground market for stolen data on the dark web.

One of the significant risks of buying an SSN on the Dark Web is that you are engaging in illegal activity. Purchasing stolen or fake SSNs is a crime, and participating in this illicit trade can result in serious legal repercussions. Law enforcement agencies actively monitor Dark Web activities, and individuals involved in buying or selling SSNs can face criminal charges, including identity theft, fraud, and conspiracy. You can correct, and in some cases remove, information about you in commercial and public records that has resulted from identity theft. That’s because you’re dealing with legitimate companies, agencies or organizations that will cooperate with fraud victims.

The dark web has become notorious for illicit activities, including the buying and selling of personal information. Among the most sought-after data is a person’s Social Security Number (SSN). Understanding the implications and risks of having your SSN exposed on the dark web is crucial for anyone concerned about identity theft and personal security.

Therefore, you need to be proactive about knowing what information has been compromised and then secure your digital identity from scammers. Inform the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that your SSN has been found on the Dark Web and ask to file an identity theft report. Even if your information hasn’t been used maliciously yet, filing a formal claim with the FTC can help you if you need to dispute fraudulent charges, accounts, or crimes. You’ll need to request a credit freeze from each of the three major credit bureaus individually — Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

You can also choose to use a password manager, which is a great way to create strong credentials that help keep your login information safe. With that said, if you happen to find your Social Security number or other sensitive data on the dark web, here are some steps you can take. Banking services provided by Community Federal Savings Bank, Member FDIC. See if your address, email and more are exposed on people finder sites. Some thieves will even go through the trash to look for documents containing personal data. Some journalists use the dark web to protect the identity of sources or whistleblowers.

Signs of criminal activity in your accounts may be minor and easy to overlook. If you notice any suspicious activity, talk to the police immediately, freeze your bank accounts, and change your passwords. Sensitive data that appears on the dark web most often comes from data breaches, malware attacks, or other fraudulent activities (such as phishing email scams).

We’ll proactively monitor your card and account for any fraudulent activity. If your Social Security card is nowhere to be found, or if your purse, wallet or other personal belongings have been stolen, you may be vulnerable to identity theft. If you know your SSN by heart, it may not be necessary to get a new card, but you can easily order a free replacement from the Social Security Administration. If your Gmail address is found on the dark web, you can set up 2-factor authentication to protect your account.

Experian’s free dark web scan can look for your email address, phone number and Social Security number, and Experian’s personal privacy scan can search for your information on people finder sites. You have the right to freeze and unfreeze your credit for free and as often as you’d like, but you’ll need to contact each credit bureau directly. Also, don’t forget to unfreeze or temporarily “thaw” your reports when you apply for a new credit card or loan. If that seems like too much work, you can add a fraud alert to your credit report that asks lenders to verify your identity before approving credit in your name.

What is the Dark Web?

The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. This anonymity attracts illegal activities, including the trade of stolen identities and personal information.

Why is the Social Security Number Valuable?

• Identity Theft: SSNs are key to committing identity theft. They can be used to open bank accounts, take out loans, and apply for credit cards in someone else’s name.
• Fraudulent Activities: Criminals can use SSNs to engage in various fraudulent activities, including tax fraud and obtaining government benefits unlawfully.
• Access to Sensitive Information: An SSN can serve as a gateway to personal and financial data, making it easier for criminals to exploit victims.

How Does a Social Security Number End Up on the Dark Web?

Several factors contribute to the leakage of SSNs onto the dark web:

• Data Breaches: Large-scale data breaches from corporations or government agencies can expose millions of SSNs.
• Phishing Scams: Scammers may trick individuals into providing their SSNs through fake emails or websites.
• Insider Threats: Employees with access to sensitive information may sell this data on the dark web.

Potential Consequences of Having Your Social Security Number on Dark Web

The exposure of an SSN on the dark web can lead to severe consequences:

1. Identity Theft: Victims can suffer from financial loss and damage to their credit scores.
2. Legal Issues: Individuals may face legal challenges if their identities are used to commit crimes.
3. Emotional Stress: The anxiety and stress of dealing with identity theft can have long-lasting mental health effects.

• There are also VPNs and password managers that monitor the dark web for data breaches that may affect you.
• That’s why using a virtual private network (VPN) like McAfee Secure VPN, which comes with bank-grade encryption to scramble your data, can be a good idea.
• Here is what you need to do if your Social Security number was stolen.
• If you are worried someone has stolen your Social Security number, look out for the following signs.

How to Check if Your Social Security Number is on the Dark Web

It is essential to monitor the status of your SSN:

• Credit Monitoring Services: These services can alert you if your SSN or personal information appears on the dark web.
• Use Dark Web Scanners: Specialized tools can search the dark web for your SSN and notify you if it is found.
• Regular Credit Reports: Review your credit reports frequently for unauthorized activity.

Steps to Take if Your Social Security Number is Found on the Dark Web

If you discover that your SSN is compromised, take immediate action:

1. Freeze Your Credit: Contact the major credit bureaus to freeze your credit, preventing new accounts from being opened in your name.
2. Report Identity Theft: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and local law enforcement.
3. Monitor Financial Accounts: Keep a close eye on bank statements and credit card activity for any suspicious transactions.

FAQs About Social Security Number on Dark Web

What Should I Do If I Suspect My SSN is on the Dark Web?

Immediately take steps to freeze your credit and monitor your accounts for unauthorized use.

Can I Completely Remove My SSN from the Dark Web?

While you can take steps to protect yourself, once information is on the dark web, it is challenging to remove it entirely.

Are There Services that Help Monitor the Dark Web?

Yes, several security companies offer services to monitor the dark web for your personal information.

Understanding the risks associated with having your Social Security Number on the dark web is crucial in protecting yourself from identity theft and its consequences. Vigilance and proactive measures can help mitigate the effects of exposure and safeguard your personal information.