Can You Remove Your Information From The Dark Web?
Understanding the Risks of Your Social Security Number on Dark Web
Learning that your information has been stolen in a data breach can be shocking. Still, it can be somewhat reassuring to know that the thieves probably didn’t target your data in particular, but rather stole thousands of records at once. 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. Recently, however, it’s become more commonly used by cybercriminals and others engaged in illegal activity who are looking to obscure their identities.
When cybercriminals leak stolen sensitive data, it almost always ends up on the Dark Web, as this part of the internet grants users anonymity and privacy from IP address-tracking. A fraud alert permits creditors to get your credit report but they must take essential steps to verify your identity. When a data breach occurs, the stolen data often ends up on the Dark Web — the black market of the internet where cyberthieves buy and sell this information for profit.
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. In recent years, it has gained notoriety for illegal activities, including the trade of sensitive personal information. One of the most valuable items on the dark web is the social security number (SSN).
Why is a Social Security Number Valuable?
Krebs also suggests freezing the credit files maintained by a handful of smaller, specialized agencies. You should also check your credit score regularly, which is a good way to detect fraud after it happens. Social Security numbers are widely used by the federal government, banks, investment companies, government benefit programs and insurers to verify identity. Your stolen SSN can be used to open fraudulent credit card accounts, divert or fraudulently collect benefits and commit workplace fraud, among other forms of deceit. Throw in your name, birth date and driver’s license number, and it’s exponentially easier for someone to pretend to be you. Although the potential number of people affected is huge, by T-Mobile’s count it represents less than half the company’s current 105 million customers.
We log in daily to pay bills, shop, watch movies, and check out what friends and family are up to on social media. Never email sensitive information such as social security numbers, credit card numbers or bank accounts, and driver’s license information. “After a data breach or successful phishing campaign, much of the stolen personal information is sold on black markets. The median credit limit on a stolen credit card is 24 times the price of the card. The median account balance of a hacked PayPal account is 32 times the price on the dark web,” Comparitech’s Paul Bischoff wrote.
Your social security number serves as a unique identifier for your financial and personal activities. Its value on the dark web can be attributed to several factors:
Unfortunately, you may not know that someone has stolen your SSN until it’s too late. Phishing is a kind of email, texting or phone scam that tricks you into providing personal information by sending you communications that appear to come from a legitimate, trusted source. An SSN Validator is another tool used by scores of Synthetic Identity fraudsters. After they have located a correctly formatted SSN, they go to SSN Validator and type it in.
Though you should make security a regular part of your online routine, it’s especially important after your information is exposed. Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication and monitor your credit reports. If your information has been stolen, consider freezing your credit to prevent someone from opening new accounts in your name. Carefully review your credit report, making note of any recent changes to your credit score. 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.
Once accessed, the Dark Web presents a host of opportunities for hackers and thieves. Indeed, there are a number of sites where people can buy drugs or guns, among other things. For hackers who have obtained data, the Dark Web has also become a place to sell account login information. Often, they use Bitcoin, an encrypted currency that shrouds its owner’s identification, to make transactions.
With the rise of the dark web, cybercriminals have found new ways to steal and sell personal information, including Social Security numbers. Compromised websites should actively reach out via email to inform you of a breach. Some services, such as Equifax, which leaked over 140 million SSNs onto the internet, have a dedicated tool you can use to see if you have been affected. However, Google Alerts itself can be manipulated by cybercriminals as part of a phishing attempt to encourage you to visit malicious sites. If you see a notification, check directly with the breached source or by using a reputable website. You can mitigate some of this risk by filtering your Google Alerts for news sites and by configuring it to display only the best results.
- Identity Theft: Cybercriminals can use SSNs to impersonate you, open accounts, and make unauthorized transactions.
- Credit Fraud: With an SSN, criminals can apply for loans and credit lines in your name, leading to significant financial loss.
- Tax Fraud: SSNs can be used to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds that are not rightfully theirs.
How Do Social Security Numbers End Up on the Dark Web?
There are various ways that your social security number might find its way onto the dark web:
- Data Breaches: Companies may inadvertently leak sensitive information due to inadequate security practices.
- Phishing Scams: Cybercriminals often send deceptive emails to trick individuals into providing their SSNs and other personal information.
- Public Records: In some cases, SSNs may be publicly accessible through court records or databases.
Detecting Exposure of Your Social Security Number
Monitoring the potential exposure of your SSN is crucial. Here are some methods to check if your social security number is compromised:
- Data Breach Check: Use websites that monitor data breaches to see if your information has been leaked.
- Credit Report Monitoring: Regularly check your credit reports from major credit bureaus for any unfamiliar accounts.
- Social Media Awareness: Keep an eye on social media for unauthorized use of your identity or accounts.
What to Do if Your Social Security Number is Found on the Dark Web
If you discover that your social security number is compromised, take immediate action:
- Social Security Numbers and dates of birth data of individuals, has been shut down, according to the Department of Justice.
- You can create a “my Social Security account” on the government website to monitor the use of your SSN.
- The resulting stress, financial loss and time spent trying to recover from such a crime can be overwhelming.
- One for 1.60, limousine service in the UK, 574 and change from Straight Talk, in Florida.
- Unfortunately, it’s virtually impossible to remove your SSN or other information from the Dark Web once it’s been put up for sale.
- Freeze Your Credit: Contact credit bureaus and place a freeze on your credit to prevent any new accounts from being opened.
- Report Identity Theft: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and local law enforcement.
- Monitor Financial Accounts: Keep an eye on bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Social Security Number on Dark Web
1. How can I tell if my social security number is on the dark web?
Using identity theft monitoring services or checking data breach databases can help pinpoint whether your SSN is compromised.
2. Is it illegal to buy or sell social security numbers on the dark web?
Yes, trading in stolen personal information, including SSNs, is illegal and considered a crime.
3. Can I recover my identity after it has been stolen using my social security number?
While recovery can be challenging, taking swift action can minimize damage and help restore your identity.
4. What preventative measures can I take to protect my social security number?
Limit the sharing of your SSN, use strong passwords for online accounts, and regularly check your credit reports.
Conclusion
Your social security number is a critical piece of your identity and financial information. Understanding the risks associated with its exposure on the dark web is vital. By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures, you can protect your identity from potential threats.
