Europol and the US Department of Justice launched a sting operation to seize two of the biggest dark web marketplaces and identify thousands of dark web criminals. Personal data like your date of birth, mother’s maiden name, home or office address, age, and so on should be kept secret. Freezing your credit is free and can be deactivated whenever you want to use the card. Since you never know which Wi-Fi is protected or not, it’s best to avoid using public Wi-Fi. Some of the best password managers are Zoho Vault, 1Password, RoboForm, and Bitwarden.
In today’s digital age, our personal information is more vulnerable than ever. One of the most sought-after pieces of data by cybercriminals is your Social Security number. This unique identifier is used for a variety of financial and governmental transactions, making it a valuable target for identity theft.
Should You Be Worried If Your SSN Is On The Dark Web?
The responsible approach of companies to invest in cybersecurity seemingly pays off but it is far from a desired scenario. In the case of the Czech Republic, the most common cyber-attacks are phishing (e-mails pretending to award the recipient a prize or inform them of an inheritance, suspicious messages on social media,…). This is, however, one of the main candidates for future identity theft and thus a rising threat. Remember, identity theft can have serious consequences, so it’s crucial to act quickly and decisively. By following these steps and working with the appropriate authorities, you can start the process of recovering your identity and protecting yourself from further harm.
Is my info on the dark web?
- Run a free Dark Web scan.
- Sign up for 24/7 Dark Web monitoring.
- Check recent data breach notifications.
- Look for warning signs that your device has been hacked.
- Spot the red flags of identity theft.
What is the Dark Web?
What Should I Do If I Get An Alert?
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. Accessing the Dark Web requires special software and knowledge, making it a breeding ground for cybercriminals.
If your passport or driver’s license is stolen, you can get a replacement issued with brand new numbers. Sontiq was formed in 2019, when EZShield, the leader in digital identity protection and resolution, acquired IdentityForce, the #1-rated identity theft protection provider for businesses and consumers. In March 2021, Sontiq acquired Cyberscout, the leading cyber products and services provider to the Insurance Industry. Dark web sites include online marketplaces for buying and selling illicit goods, and that includes personal information that can be used for identity theft, among other things. Our advanced monitoring technology goes beyond easily accessible sites and marketplaces, scanning private forums, the social web, the deep web, and the dark web to detect exposed information.
Why is Your Social Security Number at Risk on the Dark Web?
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When you provide your Social Security number to online services or websites, there is always a risk that it could be compromised. If a hacker gains access to a database containing this information, they can sell it on the Dark Web to the highest bidder. Once your Social Security number is out in the open, it can be used to commit various types of fraud, from opening credit accounts in your name to filing false tax returns.
How to Protect Your Social Security Number
- Avoid sharing your Social Security number unless absolutely necessary.
- Use secure passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all accounts.
- Monitor your credit report regularly for any suspicious activity.
- Consider freezing your credit to prevent unauthorized access.
They could cross-reference the account information in leaked databases, use social engineering tactics like phishing to get the password, or use brute-force attacks. Criminals use the dark web because they can buy and sell illegal goods with complete anonymity. TOR hides users’ IP addresses, and to prevent tracking, transactions are typically made using a cryptocurrency like Bitcoin. Like my wife and millions of other Americans, hackers can sell your personal data for mere change. While you should be worried that your information is on the dark web, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to protect your personal information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to enter my Social Security number online?
Can you void your Social Security number?
A. Policy for void SSNs
SSA assigns SSNs to individuals when an application has been filed to request the assignment of a number. SSA does not delete, destroy, rescind, inactivate, or cancel SSNs once they are assigned.
While many legitimate websites require your Social Security number for verification purposes, you should always exercise caution. Make sure the website is secure (look for “https://” in the URL) before entering sensitive information.
- You could buy a complete physical identification package with a new name, birth date, passport, SSN, and even a tax return for $5,200.
- If information like your Social Security number somehow ends up on the dark web, there are many nefarious purposes criminals can use it for, so you’ll have to take steps to protect yourself.
- Instead, let us focus on staying informed about cybersecurity risks, maintaining strong online security practices, and promoting ethical behavior both on and off the internet.
- Experian IdentityWorks and the Aura Dark Web Scanner can help you perform monthly privacy scans to see if your sensitive information has been exposed.
- Some try hacking into accounts or using malware to capture passwords.
The company will also advise the victim on how to protect their credit. This could be a helpful step, as most people are unaware about how to protect their information online, and what to do in case their private information is exposed in a data breach. Following a loss or theft, you should keep a close eye on your credit reports, as these can be your first indication of identity theft. Once you know that your Social Security number is available on a public forum like the dark web, it may only be a matter of time before someone tries to use that information against you.
What should I do if my Social Security number is stolen?
If you suspect that your Social Security number has been compromised, contact the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) immediately to place a fraud alert on your credit report. You should also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and monitor your accounts for any unusual activity.
What can a scammer do with the last 4 digits of your social?
If combined with other personal information, such as name and birthdate, the last four digits of an SSN can potentially be used in identity theft or fraud.
By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures to protect your personal information, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to identity theft on the Dark Web.
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.