Social security numbers (SSNs) are a critical piece of personal information that can be used for identity theft and other fraudulent activities. Unfortunately, these numbers can be found on the dark web, a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and is often used for illegal activities.
How Do SSNs End Up on the Dark Web?
When they find a social security number that belongs to a child, they will give it you and advise that is your own legal CPN number. You are victimizing a child and potentially creating identity theft problems for them for many years. Changes in your credit score can also warn you about identity theft. If a scammer opens new lines of credit, your rating will surely fall. Windows and Mac come with built-in options for encrypting files behind a password. This feature makes it harder for hackers to access your files even if they break into your device.
There are several ways that SSNs can end up on the dark web. One common method is through data breaches, where hackers gain access to sensitive information from companies or government agencies. Another way is through phishing scams, where individuals are tricked into providing their personal information.
What Are the Risks of Having Your SSN on the Dark Web?
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If your SSN is on the dark web, it can be used for a variety of fraudulent activities, such as opening bank accounts, applying for credit cards, or filing tax returns in your name. This can result in significant financial losses and damage to your credit score.
How Can You Protect Your SSN from the Dark Web?
Should I lock my Social Security number?
There are several advantages of locking your Social Security number: No one can use your Social Security number when it's locked. No one can apply for a job in your name and run up a tax bill for money you never earned.
There are several steps you can take to protect your SSN from the dark web:
How Much Does Identity Data Cost On The Dark Web Marketplace?
Uber accounts, for instance, are perfect for those who may want to take free rides and don’t want to pay much to do it—each account costs between $1 and $2. Netflix (NFLX) accounts, which also range in price from $1 to $2, are ideal for video-streamers. While obtaining Social Security numbers are useful for stealing identities, it appears they aren’t all that desirable to would-be fraudsters. Once accessed, the Dark Web presents a host of opportunities for hackers and thieves. Indeed, there are a number of sites where people can buy drugs or guns, among other things.
Can a SSN be deactivated?
Your Social Security number can't be deactivated or suspended.
- Regularly monitor your credit reports for any suspicious activity.
- Use strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts.
- Be cautious of phishing scams and never provide your personal information in response to unsolicited emails or phone calls.
- Consider using a credit freeze to prevent anyone from accessing your credit report without your permission.
What to Do If Your SSN Is Already on the Dark Web
Google One’s latest feature is a great new addition, and one that could help people better protect themselves in case they are affected by a data breach. The dark web is a useful tool if you want to use the internet with anonymity and privacy (check out the best dark web sites), but it’s also full of illegal activity, including stolen or illegal goods for sale. These include credit card numbers and personal information (birth dates, ID numbers, passwords, etc.) that can be used to impersonate someone. As of 2020, there are over 18.7 billion records and 15 billion username and password credentials to online digital services, including bank and social media accounts, circulating on the Dark Web for sale.
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If you suspect that your SSN is already on the dark web, you should take the following steps:
- Contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and place a fraud alert on your credit report.
- File a police report and contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to report the identity theft.
- Consider placing a credit freeze on your credit report to prevent further damage.
FAQs
How To Protect Your Social Security Number: 10 SSN Tips – LifeLock
Weak and reused passwords can make it easier for hackers to get into a user’s work accounts just as easily as their personal accounts. Function4 web monitoring is available to all Function4 users, so they can ensure they are keeping themselves safe online. The dark web is a growing threat to personal information, and Social Security numbers are among the most sought-after pieces of information for cybercriminals. If you suspect your Social Security number has been compromised and is on the dark web, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect yourself.
- Some of the best password managers are Zoho Vault, 1Password, RoboForm, and Bitwarden.
- Unfortunately, fraudsters with your info might also access your children’s data as well.
- “Data is transmitted very quickly. There’s no ship time. Criminals buy it, they get it instantly, and they can cash it out,” said Wilson.
- You might think that sensitive details such as SSNs or credit card details should be expensive.
What is the dark web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and is often used for illegal activities.
How can I check if my SSN is on the dark web?
There are several dark web monitoring services that can help you check if your SSN is on the dark web. However, it is important to note that these services may not be 100% accurate and should be used as a supplement to other security measures.
Can I remove my SSN from the dark web?
Once your SSN is on the dark web, it is difficult to remove it. The best course of action is to take steps to protect yourself from identity theft and fraud.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, it is not illegal to access the dark web. However, many illegal activities take place on the dark web, so it is important to exercise caution and use a secure, encrypted connection when accessing it.
Is it safe to give last 4 digits of SSN?
Be careful when giving people the last four digits of your number. Sometimes people will ask for the last four digits of your Social Security number. Be sure to keep those numbers safe because they're unique to you. Dishonest people can find out the other numbers in your Social Security number, but not the last four.
