Managed Security Services
There is no Dark Web manager to call to request its removal; it’s up to you to take action from there. This scenario was described by Pakistan’s Deputy Director Cybercrime, Muhammad Ahmad Zaeem on a TV show recently. He discussed the use of stolen ATM data sold on the darknet, then subsequently used for fake cash withdrawals and money laundering.
However, getting those questions to populate — and therefore the partial SSN — only took a name and current or former address. Lucky225 recreated his results experimenting with his own information and information from friends. In some cases, the form also asked for an alternate ID or account number but did not check if that number was authentic. Lucky225 contacted CyberScoop after identifying three additional clients using the same function — two healthcare companies and a state health agency’s vaccination verification system. In the 2023 Threat Hunting Report, CrowdStrike’s Counter Adversary Operations team exposes the latest adversary tradecraft and provides knowledge and insights to help stop breaches. There are probably a similar number of unreported instances as well.
Understanding the Dark Web and Social Security Numbers
Potential threats include suspicious applications from questionable owners that usually have access to your camera, or having your iris scanned directly. There are cases of projects which propose money in exchange for your iris scan. Everybody should secure their personally identifiable information (PII) when the background of the recipient is not crystal clear.
If you have an existing MyCredit Guide account, ID Monitoring Alerts are also available in addition to any credit alerts you may already receive. Review your financial and social security statements for suspicious charges or missing money. Use our free scan to see if any information about you and your accounts seems out of place, incorrect, or suspicious. We recommend that you regularly scan your details to see if your information has been breached or exposed. Sometimes, opening a new account isn’t worth the effort, and thieves shake you down for whatever’s in your wallet.
If you’ve used your SSN when signing up for an account, and that account becomes compromised, potentially so does your SSN. If you store personal information on a cloud service such as Dropbox, a data breach could allow others to access that information. However, phishing and smishing campaigns can be very sophisticated, appear legitimate and often involve something called spoofing. Spoofing is when an attacker creates a replica of the official website, email address or phone number of a trusted source, such as a bank, government agency or retail company. Sometimes the fraudulent website or email address will differ from the original by a single character. You can create a myEquifax account to place a fraud alert and security freeze on your Equifax credit report.
If your Social Security card is stolen, be sure to report the loss to the Internal Revenue Service. Another recent COVID-19 scam that cruelly exploits job losses involves filing phony unemployment claims using your SSN, birth date, name, or address. Financial fraud is another significant reason why people buy SSNs. With an SSN, criminals can fabricate identities and use them to open bank accounts, obtain credit cards, or apply for loans. This allows them to access funds illegally and engage in activities such as money laundering and embezzlement. If someone obtains your SSN, you may find evidence of unlawful use in your bank, credit, or other accounts.
Antimalware and antivirus programs aim to prevent malicious code from running from the start, but they do not help after the fact. Dark web monitoring tools help businesses and individuals alike by searching for any confidential information on the dark web, including login credentials, trade secrets and proprietary information. The total is higher when store credit cards are considered, along with other products such as auto loans. In 2021 alone, the FTC received 1.4 million reports of identity theft.1 Identity theft occurs when personal information is stolen and used without the individual’s knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes. Not only can this crime tarnish the affected individual’s credit history and name, but rectifying the problem can cost time, money, and a great deal of effort.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines, making it a hidden space where illegal activities often thrive. Among the illicit services available on the dark web, the trade of Social Security numbers (SSNs) is particularly concerning.
What is a Social Security Number?
A Social Security number is a unique identifier issued to U.S. citizens and some residents to track their earnings and benefits. It plays a crucial role in identity verification, and its misuse can lead to severe consequences.
How SSNs Are Used on the Dark Web
On the dark web, Social Security numbers are often bought and sold, posing serious risks for individuals whose information is compromised. Here are some common uses:
- Identity Theft: Criminals use SSNs to impersonate individuals, opening accounts and incurring debt in their name.
- Fraudulent Tax Returns: Stolen SSNs allow perpetrators to file fake tax returns and claim refunds.
- Accessing Benefits: Thieves may use SSNs to access government benefits unlawfully.
Where to Find SSNs on the Dark Web
Illegal marketplaces and forums on the dark web are common places for the sale of Social Security numbers. These platforms often operate using cryptocurrencies to ensure anonymity. Here’s how these transactions typically unfold:
- **Listing**: Criminals list stolen SSNs for sale, often including personal details such as names and addresses.
- Payment: Transactions are conducted using cryptocurrencies, making it challenging to trace.
- Delivery: Once payment is confirmed, the buyer receives the SSN, either through direct message or downloadable file.
Preventing SSN Compromise
Awareness and proactive measures are essential in protecting one’s Social Security number from being sold on the dark web. Here are some effective strategies:
- More than 15 billion login credentials are available for sale at any given time in underground identity markets.
- If you’re unsure how an online account was accessed, it’s a good idea to change it.
- Social security and medicare concept with social security card and pile of money.
- Because of its importance, an SSN is a desirable piece of data for malicious entities specializing in identity thefts.
- Because of its anonymity, the dark web is frequently used by a wide variety of criminals, including cybercriminals, hackers, terrorists, and drug dealers.
- Secure Personal Information: Avoid sharing your SSN unless absolutely necessary.
- Monitor Accounts: Regularly check bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity.
- Use Credit Monitoring Services: These services can alert you to any changes in your credit report.
FAQs about Dark Web and Social Security Numbers
What should I do if my SSN is compromised?
If you suspect that your Social Security number has been compromised, act quickly:
- Contact the Social Security Administration.
- Place a fraud alert on your credit report.
- Consider a credit freeze.
How can I find out if my SSN is on the dark web?
Some services specialize in monitoring the dark web for stolen information. They can provide alerts if your Social Security number appears in their databases.
Is all personal information safe from the dark web?
No information is completely safe, but using strong passwords and being cautious about sharing personal details can reduce your risk.
Conclusion
The issue of dark web Social Security numbers is a significant threat to personal security. Being informed and taking steps to safeguard your information can help mitigate the risks associated with this hidden part of the internet.
