The Dangers of Dark Web Social Security Number Theft

One of the first dark web sites to become a successful anonymous marketplace for unlawful goods and services, Silk Road was shut down in 2013, and its creator sentenced to life in prison. Dark Web Monitoring notifies you when your data is discovered, allowing you to respond quickly to security breaches, helping to minimize their impact. Fraud committed after 2 to 6 years of a data breach increased by 400% over four years. Don’t wait for a data breach to implement security best practices.

Run A Free Dark Web Exposure Scan

Banks, credit card companies, lenders and online marketplaces now publicly disclose data breaches. According to Bloomberg, the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack that led to gasoline shortages on the East Coast was due to a compromised password in a system that did not have multifactor authentication. Cybernews reported that a file with 8.4 billion passwords, which have presumably been combined from previous data leaks and breaches, was posted on a hacker forum. Once a criminal has your SSN, they can open bank accounts, apply for loans and credit cards, obtain a driver’s license or ID card, and activate insurance policies using your name. 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.

In today’s digital age, identity theft has become a significant concern for many individuals. One of the most valuable pieces of personal information how to buy drugs that can be stolen is a Social Security number (SSN). Unfortunately, due to the rise of the dark web, SSNs are now more vulnerable than ever before.

What is the Dark Web?

Dark Web Monitoring

The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through traditional web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of stolen personal information, drugs, and weapons. The dark web operates using a network of servers that encrypt user activity, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to track and monitor.

Not only can this crime tarnish the affected individual’s credit history and name, but rectifying the problem can cost time, money, and a great deal of effort. The few that do are often considered more trustworthy; otherwise, you wouldn’t give them such vital information. However, even massive enterprises have been victims of dark web site data breaches in the past decade. If enough elements are exposed, it can quickly result in identity theft, making it vital that any personal information is protected from unauthorized access or disclosure. Once a hacker has your social, he or she can commit all kinds of identity fraud – it doesn’t stop at bank accounts.

That’s why millions of Americans use identity protection services like Identity Guard. To freeze your credit, you’ll need to contact each of the three major credit bureaus individually – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Provide proof of your identity, and then request a PIN that allows you to freeze and unfreeze your report. An official report from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) acts as proof of who you are and that your identity has been stolen. You’ll need this report for most or all steps related to the identity recovery process — from closing fraudulent accounts to disputing tax fraud. Once they have your SSN, scammers can use it for numerous types of fraud — from opening bank accounts in your name to stealing your tax refund or even posing as you during police interactions.

Criminal Identity Theft

How are SSNs Stolen and Sold on the Dark Web?

SSNs can be stolen through various means, including phishing scams, data breaches, and physical theft. Once stolen, SSNs can be sold on the dark web for as little as $1 to as much as $50, depending on the demand and the amount of additional personal information included in the sale.

Did You Get An Alert That Your SSN Is On The Dark Web?

Criminals can use stolen SSNs to commit various forms of fraud, such as opening bank accounts, applying for credit cards, and filing tax returns. This can result in significant financial losses for the victim, as well as damage to their credit score and reputation.

Protecting Your SSN from Dark Web Theft

• The dark web is a network of hidden websites and other services that require specialized software to access.
• “Sometimes thieves use Social Security numbers in connection with a made-up name or their own name.”
• Then our credit monitoring feature will monitor your credit in case identity thieves try to use your SSN to open new accounts or take out loans.

There are several steps you can take to protect your SSN from dark web theft:

• Keep your SSN private: Avoid carrying your Social Security how to access the dark web with tor card in your wallet or sharing your SSN with anyone who doesn’t need it.
• Monitor your credit report: Regularly check your credit report for any suspicious activity or unauthorized accounts.
• Use strong passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all of your online accounts, and consider using a password manager to keep track of them.
• Use two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or fingerprint.
• Consider identity theft protection: There are various identity theft protection services available that can help monitor your personal information and alert you to any potential threats.

Conclusion

The dark web poses a significant threat to the security of personal information, including SSNs. By taking the necessary precautions and remaining vigilant, you can help protect yourself from dark web social security number theft and the resulting financial and reputational damage.