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Password managers are apps or browser plug-ins that encrypt—or scramble—and store all your passwords. Some may also create unique passwords automatically, which you can use when creating a new account. This can make it easier to keep track of your passwords—and make it more difficult for hackers to access your information. Establishing a my Social Security account is another way to monitor the use of your Social Security number. This type of account lets you track and manage your current benefits, including checking if anyone has filed a claim.
In today’s digital age, identity theft is a growing concern for many individuals. One of the most valuable pieces of personal information that can be used for identity theft is a Social Security number (SSN). Unfortunately, SSNs are often bought and sold on the dark web, a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and requires special software to access.
What To Do If Your Information Is Found On The Dark Web
What is the Dark Web?
A data breach is the intentional or unintentional release or theft of secure information. It can be the improper disposal of personally identifiable information in the trash or a sophisticated cyber-attack on corporate computers by criminals. Each plan below combines dark web monitoring with a wealth of other features.
How do hackers find SSN?
1. Data breaches at companies storing your SSN. Scammers rarely steal Social Security numbers by targeting individuals. It's much more efficient for them to hack large corporations or government agencies that store hundreds, thousands, or even millions of SSNs in customer databases.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and is intentionally hidden from the general public. It can only be accessed using special software, such as the Tor browser. The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information, including SSNs.
Discover Launches Social Security Number Alert Feature
How are SSNs Obtained and Sold on the Dark Web?
There are a variety of ways that SSNs can be obtained and sold on the dark web. Some of the most common methods include:
How Dark Web Report Works
To avoid falling victim to scammers, hackers, and fraudsters, you need proactive protection. An all-in-one digital security solution like Aura can monitor your accounts, alert you of suspicious activity, and help protect you against cyberattacks. If the information found on the dark web includes credit card numbers or other financial data, the safest thing to do is to contact the relevant organizations and inform them of the situation. They will most likely freeze your cards and accounts to prevent unauthorized activity.
How to find out if someone is using my child’s Social Security number?
Contact the three credit bureaus.
The credit reporting agencies do not knowingly maintain credit files on minor children. You can find out if your child may be a victim of identity theft by contacting the three major credit bureaus.
- Data breaches: Large-scale data breaches, such as the Equifax breach in 2017, can result in the theft of millions of SSNs. These SSNs are then sold on the dark web to the highest bidder.
- Phishing scams: Phishing scams, which involve tricking individuals into providing their personal information, are also a common source of SSNs on the dark web.
- Insider theft: Sometimes, SSNs are obtained by insiders, such as employees of government agencies or hospitals, who have access to this information.
Bischoff notes that certain information, like credit card numbers, are sold in bulk packages generally resulting from some kind of breach or attack. 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. Free Dark Web scanners aren’t comprehensive enough to give you a complete and accurate picture of whether your information is on the Dark Web.
What Can You Do to Protect Your SSN?
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of having your SSN stolen and sold on the dark web, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- They might access your online bank or credit card accounts, using your funds to buy electronics, expensive restaurant meals, hotel stays, and whatever else they desire.
- It consists of overlay networks where users remain anonymous, all activity is untraceable, and access is only available through advanced software or specialized browsers such as the Tor browser.
- Engaging in such activities puts you at risk of being caught and facing severe legal consequences.
- If you attempt to research your own information personally by venturing into the dark web, you could be tricked into interacting with hackers and exposing your identity further.
- Here are the ways you can protect your Social Security number from getting stolen.
- For example, if someone has used your SSN to take out a mortgage, notify the lender or financial institution as soon as possible to let them know that the application was fraudulent.
If you request each of the three reports separately, you can monitor your credit files at no cost more frequently throughout the year. The SSNDOB scheme, which stands for social security number date of birth, impacted about 24 million people across the U.S., the Internal Revenue Service says. By staying cautious and adopting a skeptical mindset, you can effectively protect yourself from falling victim to phishing attempts. Remember that your personal information is valuable, and legitimate organizations will never request sensitive information via unsolicited communications. Trust your instincts and be proactive in preventing phishing attacks.
- Protect your personal information: Be cautious about providing your personal information, including your SSN, to anyone. Only provide this information when it is necessary and you are confident that it will be kept secure.
- Monitor your credit reports: Regularly monitor your credit reports for any suspicious activity. If you notice any unauthorized charges or new accounts that you didn’t open, contact the credit reporting agencies immediately.
- Consider identity theft protection: There are a variety of identity theft protection services available that can help monitor your personal information and alert you to any suspicious activity.
Conclusion
The dark web is a breeding ground for illegal activities, including the sale of stolen personal information, such as SSNs. While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of having your SSN stolen and sold on the dark web, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. By protecting your personal information, monitoring your credit reports, and considering identity theft protection, you can help keep your SSN and your identity safe.
Can I change my SSN?
The Social Security Administration does allow you to change your number, but only under limited circumstances, such as identity theft or if your safety is in danger. You will also need to supply appropriate documentation to support your application for a new number.
