The Dark Web and Your Social Security Number
You can request free credit reports directly from the three main credit reporting bureaus — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — or from AnnualCreditReport.com, a service run by the federal government. An unexpected drop in your credit score can indicate illegal activity, fraud or identity theft. You should take any unexpected change seriously, even if it doesn’t trigger an automated fraud alert. If your SSN ends up on the dark web, you can become a prime candidate for attempted identity theft and fraud.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illegal activities, including the sale of personal data such as your social security number (SSN). Understanding the implications of having your SSN compromised on the dark web is crucial for safeguarding your identity.
What is a Social Security Number?
¹ The score you receive with Aura is provided for educational purposes to help you understand your credit. It is calculated using the information contained in your Equifax credit file. Lenders use many different credit scoring systems, and the score you receive with Aura is not the same score used by lenders to evaluate your credit. Your passwords are the first line of defense against cybercriminals — and the last line, too, without two-factor authentication (2FA).
A data breach is the most popular way hackers can steal your identity to sell on the dark web. If you fall victim to medical identity theft, you’ll get billed for treatments the thief receives. You may experience delays getting medical care and even lose access to all your health benefits.
A social security number is a unique identifier issued to U.S. citizens and some residents for the purpose of tracking earnings and benefits within the Social Security system. However, it has become a crucial element of your identity in many other contexts:
A $1 price tag may not sound like much for a social security number, but when the haul is 143 million from the Equifax breach alone, then every dollar adds up. Data is a valuable commodity and can be used, sold, resold, ad infinitum; stolen data is like the gift that keeps on giving. The dark web presents a complex and treacherous world, filled with illegal activities and hidden dangers. Buying a Social Security Number (SSN) on the dark web is not only against the law but also exposes individuals to severe legal consequences and ethical dilemmas.
- Identification: Used for various forms of identification such as driver’s licenses, passports, and banking.
- Credit History: Essential for tracking your credit history and applying for loans.
- Employment: Required by employers for tax reporting and to verify eligibility for work.
Once your information is on the dark web, removing it can be difficult, or even impossible. Dark web repositories of stolen personal data generally operate in support of criminal activity. Even if you could get in touch with an administrator, they likely would ignore your message. The dark web is a network of hidden websites and other services that require specialized software to access. Much of the material found on the dark web is encrypted or otherwise protected.
Now, the city says at least 600 gigabytes of data was leaked in the second dump last week. Computer viruses are not just illegal software that can affect the performance of your device; they could pose serious risks… This chart indicates the approximate cost of popular goods and services on the dark web. Don’t worry about having to set time aside to manually check if your private information has ended up on the dark web, let BreachWatch do the hard work for you.
The Risks of SSN Exposure on the Dark Web
Your social security number can be compromised through various means, making it available on the dark web:
- Data Breaches: Companies that store sensitive information are prime targets for hackers.
- Phishing Scams: These can trick individuals into providing their SSN.
- Unsecured Websites: Personal information can be collected through compromised websites.
- It doesn’t require some special browser or password and is available to anyone – including you.
- 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.
- ¹ The score you receive with Aura is provided for educational purposes to help you understand your credit.
- Experian websites have been designed to support modern, up-to-date internet browsers.
- This site belonging to the Federal Trade Commission is the federal government’s one-stop resource for identity theft victims.
How Your SSN is Sold on the Dark Web
Once compromised, your social security number can be sold on the dark web in various ways:
- Individual Sales: Cybercriminals may sell SSNs individually or in bulk.
- Full Identity Packages: Offers that include SSN, name, address, and other personal information.
- Ransom and Fraud Services: Cybercriminals may use stolen SSNs to open credit accounts, file false tax returns, or for identity theft.
Preventative Measures to Protect Your SSN
It is essential to take steps to protect your social security number from falling into the wrong hands:
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check bank and credit statements for unauthorized activity.
- Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords for your online accounts.
- Secure Your Devices: Install security software and keep your devices updated.
What to Do if Your SSN is Compromised
If your social security number has been found on the dark web, it’s crucial to act quickly:
- Place a Fraud Alert: Contact one of the major credit bureaus to alert them of potential identity theft.
- Credit Freeze: Consider freezing your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
- Monitor Your Identity: Sign up for identity theft protection services that can alert you to unauthorized activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I check if my SSN is on the dark web?
Several services offer dark web monitoring. They can scan for your SSN among other personal data.
How To Protect Your Social Security Number And Personal Data
2. Can I permanently remove my SSN from the dark web?
It is challenging to remove it once exposed. However, monitoring and taking protective measures can help mitigate risks.
3. What are the signs of identity theft involving my SSN?
- Unexpected credit card charges.
- Unfamiliar accounts on your credit report.
- Receiving tax documents for income you did not earn.
4. Is it illegal to search for personal information on the dark web?
While searching isn’t inherently illegal, engaging in activities such as purchasing stolen data is against the law.
Awareness of how the dark web social security number exchange operates can empower you to take necessary precautions to protect your identity and personal information effectively.
