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

If you need to dispose of any documents with your Social Security number, make sure to shred them. 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. “Any information that the school district has about them could potentially be in the hands of cybercriminals,” said Callow.

There is a dark layer of the internet deep down where criminals swap and sell stolen information for identity theft or fraud. Dark web monitoring continuously scans the dark web’s deepest corners looking for exposure of your personal information. You receive notifications if your sensitive information is found on the dark web, so you can take quick action to fix the problem before it can do more harm.

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“It’s important to understand how identity theft services work and the limits of what they can do,” Grant said. These services also usually provide advice about what to do if consumers’ information is being used fraudulently and offer some insurance. The watchdog group’s report also noted that 37 percent of those surveyed what is on the dark web also mistakenly believe that these services can stop fraudsters from using your personal information on the dark web. The federal agencies seized four websites selling personally identifiable information of individuals in the United States, operating under the SSNDOB Marketplace banner, the DOJ statement says.

You have the option to renew the alert after the one-year period ends. If your lost card ends up in the hands of scammers or cybercriminals, they gain access to your Social Security number and can cause significant damage. In essence, all types of SSN-related identity thefts use the number plus your additional information to bypass identification procedures in social and financial institutions. So, to the people wondering what can someone do with your SSN, the following is just scratching the surface.

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With Chase for Business you’ll receive guidance from a team of business professionals who specialize in helping improve cash flow, providing credit solutions, and managing payroll. Choose from business checking, business credit cards, merchant services or visit our business resource center. It’s easier for someone to steal your identity once your information is on the dark web. That’s why we monitor your personal information and alert you if we spot new activity or changes.

• Does anyone have any experience with this – is this legit or is there a better process to follow?
• A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit identification number assigned to individuals in the United States.
• If they find your details, they’ll let you know right away so you can take action.

The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, including the sale of stolen personal information, such as Social Security numbers (SSNs).

Why Is Dark Web Monitoring Important?

Social Security Numbers are among the most sought-after pieces of information for cybercriminals. For more information on how to protect your identity and data, visit the How to Protect Your Data website Traducción al Español. Many apps are home to scamming activity, such as WhatsApp scams, when criminals pose as a family member or friend calling from a new, unknown phone number and claim to have an emergency. Using MFA helps ensure that even if someone has found your usernames and passwords on the dark web, they won’t be able to access your accounts. Make sure your antivirus protection is up to date and perform thorough security scans on all your devices.

How SSNs End Up on the Dark Web

There are a number of ways that SSNs can end up on the dark web. One common method is through data breaches, where hackers gain unauthorized access to a company’s database and steal sensitive information. This information is then sold on the dark web to the highest bidder.

How To Tell If Scammers Are Using Your SSN

Another way that SSNs can end up on the dark web is through phishing scams. These scams often involve hackers sending emails or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or government agency. The message will ask the victim to provide their SSN or other personal information, which is then collected and sold on the dark web.

The Dangers of Having Your SSN on the Dark Web

Having your SSN on the dark web can be extremely dangerous. It can be used by criminals to commit identity theft, open fraudulent accounts, and even file false tax returns. This can result in significant financial losses and damage to your credit score.

Identity theft is a serious crime that can have long-lasting effects. It can take years to recover from the financial and emotional damage caused by identity theft. It is important to take steps to protect your personal information and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

Protecting Your SSN

There are a number of steps you can take to protect your SSN and prevent it from being sold on the dark web:

• Never give out your SSN unless it is absolutely necessary. Be wary of requests for your SSN, especially over the phone or through email.
• Regularly check your credit report for any suspicious activity. You can request a free credit report once a year from each of the three major credit bureaus.
• Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report. This will make it more difficult for someone to open a new account in your name.
• Consider investing in identity theft protection services. These services can monitor your personal information and alert you if it is being used fraudulently.

It is important to be vigilant and proactive in protecting your personal information. By taking steps to secure your SSN and other darknet seiten sensitive information, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft and other forms of financial fraud.