People’s Personal Data Is Worth $1,000 On The Dark Web, New Study By Privacy Affairs Finds
Understanding the Risks of a Phone Number Found on the Dark Web
By staying vigilant and proactive, you can detect and address any signs of unauthorized activity early on. If you’re interested in more active defense, consider a dark web monitoring service. These services, some of which are free, will scan known data breaches for any mention of your name, identifying characteristics and sensitive information that may have been exposed.
Identity thieves can connect on the dark web, a network of sites not found through Google or other search engines. There a person can sell stolen Netflix logins, for example, and be pretty confident that authorities won’t find their location. Why do people search sites and data brokers exist in the first place?
The term itself is known to send chills down one’s spine because there are thousands of stories about the dark web and rampant cybercrime. As the threat of identity theft is ever present, concerns about the dark web are certainly founded. Get more from a personalized relationship offering no everyday banking fees, priority service from a dedicated team and special perks and benefits. Connect with a Chase Private Client Banker at your nearest Chase branch to learn about eligibility requirements and all available benefits. I received a message about an unknown account in my name on the dark web from one of the credit bureaus.
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet known for its illicit activities and anonymity. One concerning issue that arises from this realm is the presence of personal information, including a phone number found on the dark web.
Possession of your SSN allows a criminal to steal your identity and attempt to commit fraud by acting as if they were you to open accounts, borrow money, or make purchases. If you don’t recognize this as a company you have a relationship with, note that it may be a third party organization that interfaces with a company you have done business with. A hypothetical example could be if your information was exposed during the breach of a payment processor that partners with a commercial airline you’ve bought tickets from. If you receive a dark web alert, fortunately, it doesn’t mean that someone has already used your data.
Why Phone Numbers End Up on the Dark Web
This hidden part of the internet is a haven for hackers because of its anonymity. It’s the perfect marketplace for cybercriminals looking to sell or buy stolen passwords, Social Security numbers and other sensitive information. This service searches the dark parts of internet to find exposures of personal and financial information. The personal and financial information we find comes from Internet forums and websites, web pages, dark web chat channels, hidden and anonymous web services, malware samples, and more.
There are several reasons why someone’s phone number found on the dark web can occur:
- Data breaches from companies failing to protect customer information.
- Phishing scams where individuals unknowingly provide their details.
- Credit card fraud, leading to the exposure of sensitive data.
- Social engineering attacks targeting personal information.
A SIM card lock is like a physical two-factor authentication (2FA) that stops hackers from using your SIM card. By locking your SIM, hackers can’t reset your passwords or impersonate you with another phone. Let your mobile carrier know right away if you think that your phone number may be hacked or compromised. Your provider can help you regain access to your phone or hacked SIM card, if that’s the case. However, hackers have more sophisticated attack methods that can take control of your most sensitive accounts (email, banking, etc.) with just your phone number.
Potential Risks Associated with Having Your Phone Number Exposed
If your phone number found on the dark web, it can lead to several risks, including:
- Identity theft: Criminals can use your phone number to impersonate you.
- Account takeovers: Your accounts linked to the exposed phone number might become vulnerable.
- Spam and phishing attempts: Increased unsolicited communication is likely.
- Threats and harassment: Malicious individuals can harass you via phone calls or messages.
How to Check if Your Phone Number is on the Dark Web
There are methods to determine if your phone number found on the dark web. These include:
- Using dark web monitoring services that scan for your information.
- Conducting searches on specialized sites that track data breaches.
- Staying vigilant for unusual banking or online activity.
What to Do If Your Phone Number is Found on the Dark Web
If you discover that your phone number found on the dark web, take immediate action:
- Change your passwords for accounts linked to the number.
- Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Contact your mobile service provider to inform them of the situation.
- Monitor your financial statements for any suspicious activity.
- Consider employing identity theft protection services.
FAQs About Phone Numbers on the Dark Web
Q: How do phone numbers end up on the dark web?
A: Phone numbers can be exposed through data breaches, phishing scams, and other illicit activities.
Q: What should I do if I find my phone number on the dark web?
A: Take steps to secure your accounts, change passwords, and monitor for any suspicious activity.
Q: Can I prevent my phone number from appearing on the dark web?
A: While it is difficult to guarantee complete safety, practicing good online security habits and being cautious about sharing personal information can help.
- MFA should be an integral part of our online security at all times, not only when we’re faced with a breach.
- These are the traditional gateways to search results, websites, and other information stored online.
- Carrier overnight shipping limitations apply that may impact the delivery date.
- Google has not mentioned if the API’s new video functionality is replacing CSAI Match or how the two services differ.
Conclusion
Understanding the implications of a phone number found on the dark web is crucial in today’s digital age. By remaining vigilant and taking proactive measures, individuals can protect themselves from potential risks associated with this alarming issue.
