The Dangers of Exposing Your Social Security Number on the Dark Web

Last June, the websites were shut down through seizure orders issued against the domain names. However, some may request access to your location, photos, contact list, and even microphone. Certain apps, especially those filled with malware, can then collect your data and share it with others. Fortunately, Android devices and Apple iPhones allow you to change your permission settings for apps. Fortunately, you can do a few things to minimize your risk of exposure. These steps are especially important amid an increase in cybersecurity threats as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the rise of cybercrime and data breaches, protecting your personal information has never been more crucial. One piece of information that is highly sought after by criminals is your Social Security Number. This unique identifier can grant access to a plethora of sensitive data, making it a valuable commodity on the dark web.

Warning Signs Of Social Security Number Identity Theft

What is the Dark Web?

Stolen Documents

The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, weapon sales, and identity theft. The anonymity provided by the dark web makes it an attractive marketplace for cybercriminals looking to buy and sell stolen information.

If anything is found, you’ll get an alert in near real-time along with help from Identity Guard’s U.S.-based team of Fraud Resolution Specialists. When your personal information is leaked in a data breach (or stolen through hacking, malware scams, or phishing attacks), it most likely turns up on Dark Web marketplaces. However, if you find that someone is using your SSN, it’s possible to remove the activity from your credit file.

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The Risks of Exposing Your Social Security Number

It is also necessary for receiving health insurance and government benefits. Because of its importance, an SSN is a desirable piece of data for malicious entities specializing in identity thefts. Read on to find out how to check if someone is using your social security number, what actions you should take, and how to save your identity. Google One now includes a dark web monitoring service that could help people protect themselves in case of a data breach. Close your accounts immediately if your banking information is compromised. Your bank or credit card issuer will help you shut down your accounts and open new ones.

Once your Social Security Number falls into the wrong hands on the dark web, it can be used for a variety of malicious purposes. Identity thieves can use it to open credit accounts, file fraudulent tax returns, or even commit medical fraud in your name. The consequences of having your identity stolen can be devastating and long-lasting.

After you sign up, you can see when a data breach occurred, what was breached, where it was breached from (the website), and also see actions that you need to take to fix the problem. Proving that you’ve been the victim of identity theft can be a long and complicated process. Impacted companies may believe that you’re the criminal trying to take over someone’s account or identity.

These attributes are snippets of information, such as your name, address, date of birth, social security number, and so on. In an exposé article by cyber-intelligence firm DarkOwl, they explain how a hacker group (or possibly an individual) known as “TheDarkOverlord” operates. The post shows the sites that the hacker uses to sell on any stolen data. One such tranche of data up for sale was the health data of 67,000 patients from across several U.S. states. The darknet plays host to a number of areas (sites) that are used by cybercriminals to exchange goods and services.

Protecting Your Social Security Number

There are several steps you can take to safeguard your Social Security Number from ending up on the dark web. Avoid sharing it online unless absolutely necessary, and never provide it to unverified sources. Monitor your credit reports regularly for any suspicious activity, and consider freezing your credit to prevent unauthorized access.

• It might be helpful when you report the issue to other agencies or companies.
• The items sold on the dark web could harm the public or private businesses, as malicious and illegal actors are often the buyers and sellers.
• The dark web is where sites illegally sell consumer data and other black market goods – don’t go there.
• If a wire transfer is requested of you via email, call a trusted telephone number for the payee’s institution to check the legitimacy of the wiring instructions before you send any cash.

By being vigilant and proactive in protecting your personal information, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft on the dark web. Remember, once your Social Security Number is out there, it’s nearly impossible to completely erase it from cyberspace.