Why You Should Use Dark Web Monitoring
Understanding the Dark Web and Social Security Numbers
He was arrested when he tried to enter Hungary in March 2022, federal prosecutors said, and extradited to the US four months later. Have you ever shared the make and model of your first car, your favorite movie or band, or your high school graduation year? This information helps unsavory characters figure out online passwords and security questions. Criminals can use this information in a variety of ways, such as to impersonate you or create a fake identity using your Social Security number. They may even make a driver’s license or medical insurance card using your information and then use the documents if they’re arrested or want to get a medical procedure. SIM swapping is when someone temporarily takes over your phone line using the same SIM swapping procedure that you’d use to activate a new phone.
A stolen Social Security number (SSN) is one of the leading causes of identity theft and can be a real threat to your financial health. Avoid this scam’s frustrating legal and financial consequences and learn how to better protect your personal information from Social Security number identity theft. Imagine you open your mail to find a credit card bill with thousands of dollars of mysterious charges.
For example, a number of reports found job ads for bank employees with weekly salaries for illegally accessing bank accounts and carrying out bank transfers. In the USA, according to Javelin Research, there were 14.4 million victims of identity theft during 2018. The previous year saw 16.7 million people have their identity stolen and used for fraudulent purposes. The darknet has become a digital marketplace where much of the stolen data we hear about ends up. In a recent expose, the data from the online accounts of 617 million individuals were found up for sale on the darknet. Furthermore, the sellers on the Dark Web are often anonymous and untrustworthy.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It hosts a variety of illegal activities, including the buying and selling of personal information, especially Social Security Numbers (SSNs). This article delves into the relationship between the dark web and Social Security Numbers, highlighting the risks and preventive measures users can take.
However, your SSN is not as valuable to an identity thief as you might think. CreditWise Alerts are based on changes to your TransUnion and Experian® credit reports and information we find on the dark web. Password managers are apps or browser plug-ins that encrypt—or scramble—and store all your passwords.
The credit scores provided are based on the VantageScore® 3.0 model. Lenders use a variety of credit scores and are likely to use a credit score different from VantageScore® 3.0 to assess your creditworthiness. Banking services provided by Community Federal Savings Bank, Member FDIC. See if your address, email and more are exposed on people finder sites. Some journalists use the dark web to protect the identity of sources or whistleblowers.
- It is safer and done by professionals who will know where to look.
- While this may sound negative, it’s the unfortunate reality given the amount of electronic data we provide nearly every day combined with a growing number of data breaches around the world.
- A bad guy can easily see what sites your employees are visiting and what login credentials are used to access accounts.
- The NASA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, US Patent Office, and private databases like LexisNexis and Westlaw are some of the largest sites listed here.
Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to get an annual free credit report from each of the three nationwide credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Through December 2023, you can get a free credit report every week from each of them at the website. If you find an account or transaction you don’t recognize, visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the identity theft and get a personal recovery plan. You have the right to freeze and unfreeze your credit for free and as often as you’d like, but you’ll need to contact each credit bureau directly. Also, don’t forget to unfreeze or temporarily “thaw” your reports when you apply for a new credit card or loan.
What is a Social Security Number?
A Social Security Number is a unique identifier assigned to U.S. citizens and individuals residing in the United States. It serves various crucial purposes, including:
- Tracking earnings for Social Security benefits
- Establishing credit history
- Filing taxes
Due to these functions, Social Security Numbers are highly sought after by criminals for identity theft.
The Dark Web Market for Social Security Numbers
On the dark web, Social Security Numbers can be purchased for as little as $1 to over $100, depending on the data collected and the seller’s reputation. Here is how they are typically traded:
- Data Breaches: Personal information is often leaked during data breaches, making millions of SSNs available on the dark web.
- Identity Theft: Cybercriminals utilize stolen identities to commit fraud, often purchasing SSNs from dark web forums or marketplaces.
- Pay-Per-Use Services: Some sellers offer services that allow buyers to use the SSN temporarily for fraudulent activities.
Risks Associated with Dark Web and Social Security Numbers
Engagement with the dark web poses several significant risks:
- Identity Theft: Stolen Social Security Numbers can lead to severe identity theft issues, affecting financial stability and personal reputation.
- Fraudulent Activities: Criminals may use SSNs to open bank accounts, file taxes, or obtain loans, directly impacting the victim.
- Legal Consequences: Involvement in any dark web activity, even inadvertently, can lead to legal troubles.
How to Protect Your Social Security Number
To prevent your Social Security Number from being compromised and appearing on the dark web, consider the following protective measures:
- Limit Sharing: Only provide your SSN when absolutely necessary.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements and credit reports for any unauthorized transactions.
- Use Strong Passwords: Secure your online accounts with complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Beware of Phishing: Be cautious of unsolicited communications asking for personal information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my Social Security Number is compromised?
If you suspect your Social Security Number has been compromised, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.
Can I check if my Social Security Number is on the dark web?
Some services offer dark web monitoring, alerting you if your SSN or other personal information has been found. Consider utilizing these services for added security.
What legal protections exist for victims of identity theft?
Victims of identity theft can take advantage of laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act and the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act to help recover losses and restore their identity.
Understanding the implications of the dark web and protecting your Social Security Number is essential in our increasingly digital world. Always remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard your personal information.
