How Do These Alerts Differ From The Existing Fraud Alerts On My Discover Account?
Understanding the Risks of the Dark Web and Your Social Security Number
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. You’ll also only want to visit encrypted webpages when browsing online — keep an eye out for URLs beginning with HTTPS rather than HTTP. Lastly, shred paper containing your personal information or lock it away until you can.
There are sometimes ways to help keep your information safe — for instance, by using a VPN on an unprotected Wi-Fi network. But the safest way to share may be face to face with someone you know and trust. Not all thieves will want your Social Security number, but many will. Leaving your card at home decreases the chances that these scammers will gain access to your Social Security number. The real harm, said Wilson, is that once your data is for sale on the dark web, it’s likely to remain there for years to come.
Dark web sites are anonymously hosted websites accessible only through special software — commonly “TOR” (The Onion Router). While the dark web has legitimate uses, it’s also a hotbed of illicit online marketplaces and other illegal activity. The dark web is a hidden part of the deep web that isn’t indexed by search engines.
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. IDStrong strongly recommends using our free scan to see what information on you is available. The Federal Trade Commission recorded 5.7 million cases of identity theft in 2023. You should hold onto tax-related documents, proof of income, and property records for at least three years. It’s best to make digital copies of documents requiring permanent storage, like birth certificates or home deeds.
People can also buy your personal data, like the password for online subscriptions, to use streaming accounts for entertainment. Hackers access thousands of personal information after a data breach. So, if a cybercriminal accesses enough data, they can make thousands or millions by selling on the dark web. Other services on sale on the dark web that can be used to steal your identity include Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, money laundering schemes, and cybercriminal tutorials. Lastly, if a hacker steals your online banking information, they could sell the details for around $65 per account. An ID scan or digital copy of your DL depends on how much info is attached to it.
After becoming a member, you can see where your SSN was breached, the site or company that breached it, when and how it happened, and more. We even provide you with possible steps to take to prevent future issues following this breach. You will also have access to other benefits, like automated alerts when new information on you pops up on the web. Last year, and for the first time ever, hackers scored more SSNs (35 percent) than credit card numbers (30 percent), according to a 2018 study by Javelin Strategy & Research. Armed with someone’s Social Security number and other identifying information, fraudsters can apply for loans, file fraudulent tax returns and receive medical care all in the name of an unsuspecting victim. “Imagine someone taking your car, going for a joy ride and all the damage they cause is attributed to you,” Whitchurch said.
The dark web is often shrouded in mystery and fear, primarily due to its association with illegal activities. A significant concern for many individuals is the potential exposure of their social security number (SSN) on these unregulated platforms.
Engaging in identity theft or purchasing SSNs on the Dark Web exposes individuals to criminal charges and serious legal consequences. Because of its anonymity, the dark web is frequently used by a wide variety of criminals, including cybercriminals, hackers, terrorists, and drug dealers. While the dark web uses the internet, it’s only accessible via special software, authorization, or configurations. If you tried to access a dark website with a traditional browser, like Google Chrome, Safari, or Internet Explorer, you would receive an error message.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. While some use it for legitimate purposes, such as safeguarding freedom of expression, it also attracts cybercriminals.
How is a Social Security Number Used on the Dark Web?
Your social security number is a key piece of personal information that can be used for identity theft and fraud. On the dark web, your SSN can be bought and sold illegally. Hackers often utilize stolen SSNs for various illicit activities, such as:
- Opening credit accounts in your name
- Filing false tax returns
- Gaining access to personal medical records
- Committing fraud in your name
How Does SSN Theft Occur?
The theft of your social security number can happen through several avenues:
- Data Breaches: Large corporations can experience breaches that expose sensitive data.
- Phishing Scams: Individuals may unwittingly provide their SSN through deceptive emails or websites.
- Trojans and Malware: Malicious software can compromise your device and extract personal information.
Why is the Dark Web a Concern for SSN Protection?
Once stolen, your social security number can be placed on the dark web for sale, often within the following marketplaces:
- Identity Theft Forums
- Cryptocurrency Exchange Platforms
- Illicit Goods Markets
These marketplaces enable criminals to easily transact stolen information, making effective recovery challenging.
Protecting Your Social Security Number
Given the risks associated with the dark web and your social security number, consider the following protective measures:
- Limit the sharing of your SSN—only provide it when absolutely necessary.
- Monitor your credit reports regularly for unauthorized activity.
- Utilize fraud alerts through credit bureaus to safeguard against unexpected changes.
- Consider identity theft protection services for added peace of mind.
FAQs about Dark Web and Social Security Numbers
What should I do if I find my SSN on the dark web?
If your social security number is found on the dark web, take the following steps:
- Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
- Place a fraud alert on your credit report.
- Consider freezing your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
- Continue reading to learn what the dark web is, how dark web scans work and how to initiate a dark web scan.
- However, risks exist because threat actors focus efforts on accessing portions of the deep web for potential financial rewards.
- Someone with the same name appears to be further compromised, she found.
- The more information the identity thief has, the easier it is for them to commit the above crimes.
How can I check if my SSN has been compromised?
Use resources such as credit monitoring services, which can help notify you of suspicious activity associated with your social security number.
Is there any way to permanently remove my SSN from the dark web?
While permanent removal is challenging, monitoring and early detection can help mitigate impacts. Continuous vigilance is essential in protecting your identity.
Being informed about the dangers of the dark web and safeguarding your social security number can significantly reduce your risk of identity theft. Taking proactive measures is critical in today’s digital landscape.
