Social Security Numbers on the Dark Web: What You Need to Know

With the increasing number of data breaches and cyber attacks, the security of our personal information is more important than ever. One piece of information that is highly sought after by cyber criminals is our Social Security Number (SSN). These numbers are often sold on the dark web, a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities thrive.

What is the Dark Web?

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The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires special software to access. It is known for its anonymity and is often used for illegal activities such as buying and selling stolen data, drugs, and weapons.

How Do SSNs End Up on the Dark Web?

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SSNs can end up on the dark web through various means, including:

• Data breaches: Hackers target companies and organizations to steal large amounts of personal information, including SSNs.
• Phishing schemes: Cyber criminals use fake emails or websites to trick individuals into providing their SSNs.
• Employee theft: Current or former employees with access to SSNs may sell them on the dark web for profit.

The Value Of Personal Information

What Can Happen If Your SSN is on the Dark Web?

If your SSN is exposed on the dark web, you may become a victim of identity theft. This can lead to:

• Fraudulent credit card charges

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. They might seem so to you, but they contain your personal information.

• Opening of new accounts in your name
• Damage to your credit score

There is no guarantee that the SSN you purchase will be valid or not already flagged as stolen or compromised. In many cases, the SSNs offered for sale on the Dark Web are either fake or belong to unsuspecting victims. Using such information can lead to severe consequences, such as financial liabilities, damaged credit history, and legal complications. A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit identification number assigned to individuals in the United States. It serves as a crucial piece of personal information that is used for various official purposes, including employment, taxation, and accessing government benefits.

Protecting Your SSN

The email said to put a fraud alert on my Experian credit file and also review my credit report. Does anyone have any experience with this – is this legit or is there a better process to follow? After your Social Security number is plastered on the dark web, opening new accounts in your name isn’t the only thing you have to worry about. Fraudsters can use your Social Security number and other personal information they find on the web to impersonate you and to gain access to your credit cards. Once someone gains access to your credit card, they can begin piling on the charges.

To protect your SSN from ending up on the dark web, consider the following tips:

1. Avoid sharing your SSN unless absolutely necessary.

A threat actor can use your Social Security number to commit fraud to falsely receive services and benefits under your name. In that case, you need to contact each of the companies that the threat actor may have used your Social Security number with. Go through your messages and financial activity to determine which companies the threat actor contacted, including banks, utility companies or employers. Contact those companies notifying them of the identity theft and the fraudulent activity under your name.

2. Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts.
3. Monitor your credit report regularly for any suspicious activity.

Not only that, Google will also offer advice and guidance on how users can protect that information. Because child identity theft schemes can go undetected for years, often until they’re old enough to open up a credit card account, their data is considered especially valuable. Precautions, such as educating oneself, consulting legal advice, protecting personal information, and choosing reliable sellers, are essential if one were to consider exploring the dark web. However, it is strongly advised to abstain from engaging in illegal activities altogether.

• You can also request a credit freeze from any of the major bureaus, but it may take up to 24 hours to take effect — a risk that you may not want to take.
• TOR routes info through an unsystematic set of servers run by volunteers.
• Criminal crews are offering any kind of documentation that could be used in sophisticated frauds.
• In both cases, these documents could be used to improve efficiency of fraud schemes.
• Every American is entitled to a complementary copy of their credit report annually.

Conclusion

It’s important to be vigilant when it comes to protecting your personal information, especially your Social Security Number. By following best practices for online security and monitoring your accounts regularly, you can reduce the risk of your SSN ending up on the dark web and becoming a victim of identity theft.