Most cyberattacks rely on multiple scams, including phishing and other forms of manipulation, to uncover the data they need. Identity thieves use the Dark Web to buy and sell personal information. If you have ever been a victim of a data breach, the Dark Web is a place where your sensitive information might live. If your information is there, criminals can potentially use it to commit fraud.

Also, keep in mind that there isn’t a way to remove your SSN or any other personal information from the dark web once it exists there. Illicit dark web marketplaces and forums ooze stolen and compromised PII, including SSNs sold to the highest bidders. The dark web illegal best way to find out if your SSN has been leaked online is to check if your data was part of a data breach. Additionally, you may have received a data notification letter from a breached company, which should specify what type of information was involved.

How Can Someone Get Your Social Security Number?

If you find out your details were sold on the dark web, you might be wondering exactly how they ended up there. One reporter’s name triggered matches dating back to 2015 on what Wilson described as a “fraud site” named Black Stuff. His name also popped up among leaked email that included tens of thousands of rows of data from thousands of people. 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.

Can Dark Web Monitoring Help Businesses?

Just like with financial identity theft, you may not know someone else is profiting from you until you apply for social benefits yourself and get denied. A threat actor can use your Social Security number together with PII to commit many forms of identity theft. Among other things, they can use this information to apply for loans, avoid criminal responsibility, or attempt to steal your tax refunds, social benefits, or even medical coverage. In where to find darknet market links addition to dark web surveillance, there are other ways that identity monitoring can help protect against identity theft. When a criminal steals your SSN, they may attempt to obtain employment in your name in a type of fraud known as employment identity theft. In this scenario, the wages a thief earns are falsely reported to the Social Security Administration, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other government agencies in your name.

Dark Web Social Security Number: What You Need to Know

In today’s digital age, identity theft is a growing concern for many individuals and businesses. One of the most valuable pieces of personal information that can be stolen and used for nefarious purposes is a Social Security number. Unfortunately, Social Security numbers are often bought and sold on the dark web, a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers.

What Should I Consider After A Data Breach?

What is the Dark Web?

The dark web is a portion of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and requires special software, such as the Tor browser, to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information. The anonymity provided by the dark web makes it an attractive platform for cybercriminals to buy and sell sensitive information, including Social Security numbers.

How is a Social Security Number Stolen?

There are several ways that a Social Security number can be stolen, including:

• Phishing scams, where cybercriminals send emails or text messages that appear to be from a trusted source, such as a bank or government agency, in an attempt to trick the victim into providing their personal information.
• Data breaches, where hackers gain unauthorized access to a company’s database and steal sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers.
• Physical theft, such as stealing a wallet or purse that contains a Social Security card.

What is the Risk of Having Your Social Security Number on the Dark Web?

Once a Social Security number is on the dark web, it can dark web market be used for a variety of illegal activities, such as:

• Opening new credit accounts in the victim’s name.
• Filing fraudulent tax returns.
• Accessing the victim’s medical records.
• Renting or purchasing property in the victim’s name.

How to Protect Your Social Security Number

To protect your Social Security number from being stolen and sold on the dark web, it is important to:

• Never share your Social Security number with anyone unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Regularly monitor your credit reports for any suspicious activity.
• Use strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts.
• Keep your computer and antivirus software up to date.
• Be cautious of phishing scams and never click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.

• Identity Guard has helped protect more than 38 million Americans from identity theft.
• Internet users may be inclined to access the dark web to start browsing anonymously or to satisfy their curiosity.
• That allows you to immediately change your passwords, deactivate credit cards, or take any other steps necessary to minimise ongoing risks to your privacy and security.
• This means if you log into your online banking profile, email, social media, or any other account while on public Wi-Fi, the information is completely open and accessible by third parties.
• For example, in the Czech Republic penalties for cybersecurity breaches can represent a fine up to CZK 130 mil.

FAQs

What is the dark web?

The dark web is a portion of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and requires special software to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information.

How is a Social Security number stolen?

A Social Security number can be stolen through phishing scams, data breaches, or physical theft.

What is the risk of having your Social Security number on the dark web?

Once a Social Security number is on the dark web, it can be used for a variety of illegal activities, such as opening new credit accounts, filing fraudulent tax returns, accessing medical records, and renting or purchasing property.

How can I protect my Social Security number?

To protect your Social Security number, it is important to never share it with anyone unless necessary, regularly monitor your credit what darknet markets are left reddit reports, use strong passwords, keep your computer and antivirus software up to date, and be cautious of phishing scams.