Data Breaches
Run A Free Dark Web Exposure Scan
The Dangers of Dark Web Social Security Number Theft
Dark Web Scans For Your Personal Data
How To Buy Cryptocurrency Without Ssn
According to Constella’s 2021 Identity Breach Report, over 12 billion personal records were exposed in data breaches throughout 2020. These records are often sold among criminals or exposed on the dark web for exploitation. Contact their customer service or fraud department through the appropriate channels, such as their dedicated fraud hotline or email address.
You enter your password as usual and a unique six-digit, one-time code is sent to a trusted device via text. This added step can help improve dark websites the security of your personal information. Your personal information is nothing less than the key to your identity.
The dark web is a notorious corner of the internet where illegal activities thrive. One of the most sought-after commodities on the dark web is personal information, including Social Security numbers (SSNs).
An attacker could send you an email or message that appears to be from a legitimate organization, such as a government agency, financial institution, or trusted service provider. They might then trick you into filling out a fake form online that asks for your social security number. The process of identifying dark web vpn personal information on the dark web is more than anyone can handle manually – in fact, this portion of the Internet isn’t even accessible to the average person! If we see your information somewhere it doesn’t belong, we’ll let you know and will walk you through the next steps in protecting your identity.
Not everyone who uses the dark web is a cybercriminal, hacker, or identity thief, nor is it illegal to access the dark web. Also known as the “invisible web” and the “hidden web,” the deep web consists dark web monitoring of all the online pages that aren’t indexed by search engines (for example, password-protected pages). The dark web can be used for legitimate activities, such as communicating privately.
What is a Social Security Number?
A Social Security number is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary working residents. It is used for various purposes, including taxation, employment, and social security benefits.
How is a Social Security Number Stolen?
There are several ways a Social Security number can be stolen, including:
- Phishing scams
- Data breaches
- Physical theft
- Social engineering
Once a Social Security number is stolen, it can be sold on the dark web for a profit.
The Dangers of Dark Web Social Security Number Theft
A stolen Social Security number can have serious consequences, including:
- Identity theft: A thief can use a stolen Social Security number to open bank accounts, credit cards, and loans in the victim’s name.
- Tax fraud: A thief can use a stolen Social Security number to file tax returns and claim refunds in the victim’s name.
- Employment fraud: A thief can use a stolen Social Security number to gain employment, leading to issues with taxes and benefits.
- Criminal activity: A thief can use a stolen Social Security number to commit crimes, leading to the victim being falsely accused and arrested.
How to Protect Your Social Security Number
To protect your Social Security number from being stolen and sold on the dark web, follow these steps:
- If you are a CreditWise user and get an alert, you’ll get tips about things you can do to help protect your personal info.
- The only option is to be as careful as possible and stay vigilant for any signs of it.
- One tutorial instructs it’s user – “You will use this tool to assure you get a number that matches your state and that is most likely not assigned to someone else”.
- Additionally, you may have received a data notification letter from a breached company, which should specify what type of information was involved.
- 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.
- Your social security number is too important to fall into the hands of cybercriminals.
- Keep your Social Security card in a safe place, such as a locked box or safe.
- Only give out your Social Security number when necessary, and never over the phone or email.
- Monitor your credit reports and bank statements regularly for suspicious activity.
- Consider using a credit monitoring service to alert you of any potential fraud.
- Educate yourself on phishing scams and how to avoid them.
By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of your Social Security number being stolen and sold on the dark web.
Is it OK to send SSN by email?
The better you protect your Social Security number, the less likely you are to fall victim to different types of identity theft. If you ever need to send your Social Security number or any other sensitive information, don’t send it through email. Instead, send it securely by using a password manager.
Can two people have the same Social Security number?
There are millions of people who have SSNs, and some people think it is unique, but it is not, your number can match several people.
Can SSN start with 0?
It isn’t a bug because many people have a SSN or EIN that begin with a zero.
How can I check my SSN for free?
Up to 5 names/SSNs: Call (800) 772-6270. Up to 50 names/SSNs: Submit a written request to a local Social Security Office.