Do A Full Dark Web Scan To See What Information Hackers Have
They’d need a lot more personal information than that to get to your finances. Criminal identity theft is when someone uses your SSN and PII to avoid criminal responsibility. This can allow the identity thief to get away scot-free from a speeding ticket or, in some cases, even arrest. Instead, this criminal’s responsibility will fall on your shoulders which can come back to bite you later in life when seeking employment or dealing with other legal issues.
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So, even if you do find your SSN is on the dark web, there are steps you can take to minimize the potential damage. With your Social Security number and other personal information, an identity thief may be able to open a credit account, file a tax return or claim health insurance benefits in your name. If a password is compromised, you could be the victim of fraudulent purchases or other unauthorized account activity. That’s why dark web scanning (and credit monitoring) put you ahead of threats that can compromise your financial well-being. We alert you, so you can take action right away to change passwords and prevent or minimize the damage. Having access to one of these services can be an even better solution, as you’ll receive immediate notifications rather than having to wait four months or longer.
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Dark web monitoring scans hundreds of thousands of websites for your personal information. Zander ID Theft Solutions’ surveillance technology monitors black-market sites globally, covering everything from chat rooms to social media. This process scans for your social security number, bank account information, credit and debit card numbers, passport numbers, medical ID numbers, and any other information you provide us to monitor.
Now, researchers have found an ad on a forum for the sale of data claiming to be from infants. In light of these risks and consequences, it is strongly advised to avoid participating in the illegal trade of SSNs on the Dark Web. The potential short-term gains are not worth the long-term legal and ethical implications.
The anonymity of the dark web makes it challenging for law enforcement to find and prosecute these people. The dark web is a part of the internet that provides anonymous and secure communication channels. It’s home to several illicit activities including drug trafficking, illegal weapon sales and trafficking of stolen Personally Identifiable Information (PII) like passwords and social security numbers. A compromised social security number is much more problematic than when other types of personal data hacked.
The Benzinga site had a good short summary of the current price lists for stolen data on the dark web. Password managers are apps or browser plug-ins that when were darknet markets invented encrypt—or scramble—and store all your passwords. Some may also create unique passwords automatically, which you can use when creating a new account.
Social Security Number on Dark Web: What You Need to Know
Your Social Security number (SSN) is one of the most important pieces of personal information you have. It’s used to identify you for tax purposes, to apply for loans and credit, and to access government services. Unfortunately, it’s also a valuable commodity on the dark web, where cybercriminals can buy and sell personal information for nefarious purposes.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is only accessible through specialized software, such as the Tor browser. It’s often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information. Because of its anonymity, the dark web is a popular place for cybercriminals to buy and sell personal information, including Social Security numbers.
How Does My SSN End Up on the Dark Web?
There are a few ways your SSN can end up on the dark web:
- If you become a victim of medical identity theft, you may begin receiving unfamiliar bills and notices and be denied medical coverage.
- Most creditors will send you an alert when a purchase has been made or a payment is due.
- Whistleblowers, journalists, and individuals living under oppressive regimes may use the dark web to share sensitive information and protect their identities.
- If you are currently using a non-supported browser your experience may not be optimal, you may experience rendering issues, and you may be exposed to potential security risks.
- “Understanding what options are available to provide you the most security, and gravitating toward those options, is always the recommendation and the best practice,” Myroup says.
- Data breaches: Cybercriminals can steal large amounts of personal information, including SSNs, from businesses, government agencies, and other organizations. This information is then sold on the dark web.
- Phishing scams: Cybercriminals can trick you into giving them your personal information, including your SSN, through phishing emails, text messages, and phone calls.
- Malware: Cybercriminals can infect your computer or mobile device with malware that steals your personal information, including your SSN.
What Can I Do to Protect My SSN?
There are a few steps you can take to protect your SSN:
- Keep your SSN private: Don’t carry your Social Security card with you, and only give out your SSN when it’s absolutely necessary.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Use a different password for each of your online accounts, and make sure your passwords are strong and unique.
- Enable 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 fingerprint or a code sent to your phone.
- Monitor your credit reports: Regularly check your credit reports for signs of fraud, such as new accounts you didn’t open or inquiries you didn’t make.
- Consider a credit freeze: A credit freeze prevents anyone from opening what darknet markets are up new accounts in your name. You can lift the freeze when you need to apply for credit.
What Should I Do if My SSN is on the Dark Web?
If you suspect that your SSN is on the dark web, take the following steps:
- Contact the credit bureaus: Place a fraud alert on your credit reports, which will make it harder for cybercriminals to open new accounts in your name.
- File a police report: This will help you document the fraud and may be necessary to dispute any fraudulent charges or accounts.
- Contact the Federal Trade Commission: The FTC can provide you with resources and guidance on how to recover from identity theft.
- Consider a credit freeze: As mentioned earlier, a credit freeze can prevent anyone from opening new accounts in your name.
FAQs
What is the dark web? The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is only accessible through specialized software, such as the Tor browser. It’s often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information.
How can my SSN end up on the dark web? Your SSN can end up on the dark web through data breaches, phishing scams, and malware.
How can I protect my SSN? You can protect your SSN by keeping it private, using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, monitoring your credit reports, and considering a credit freeze.
What should I do if my SSN is on the dark web? If you suspect that your SSN is on the dark web, contact links onions the credit bureaus, file a police report, contact the Federal Trade Commission, and consider a credit freeze.
What happens if a scammer gets your SSN?
With your SSN and other personal information easily found online, scammers can commit credit card fraud, open new accounts, and receive medical care in your name — as well as siphon away your Social Security benefits.
Can I change my SSN?
The Social Security Administration does allow you to change your number, but only under limited circumstances, such as identity theft or if your safety is in danger. You will also need to supply appropriate documentation to support your application for a new number.
Is it safe to enter your SSN online?
Don't enter your SSN into your phone, laptop, or other devices. It would be rare for you to need your card. Typically, reciting the number is all that's required. Keep the number in your head and the card locked up at home.