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That includes email addresses, phone numbers, and other sensitive data that fell into the hands of scammers operating on both the dark web and the regular Internet. Your email address is one of your most important and valuable pieces of information. It’s your access key to all your accounts, and hackers can use it to access your bank accounts, buy items on the internet or even get into your home.
In addition, all domains on the Tor network end with the top-level domain .onion (instead of .com). The many layers of an onion represent the multiple layers of encryption in the Tor network. Our investigation is ongoing and will continue for some time, but at this point, we are confident that we have closed off the access and egress points the bad actor used in the attack. Call blockers can help you directly stop calls identified as scams or make them ring silently.
Understanding the Risks of a Phone Number Found on Dark Web
- You can find guidance on how to protect your personal information on the Google One website and app.
- She spends most of her time between her two feline friends and traveling.
- There are a number of different VPNs to choose from, so make sure to do your research and find one that suits your needs.
- Cybercriminals know the value of personal details, and online searches are an easy way for them to find what they need.
- Follow the steps for each account to complete the account deletion process.
For that routing system to work, all hidden services have to declare their existence to those directories. Scammers may pretend to be your bank, insurance provider, or a government agency to ask for sensitive information, like your health data and financial details. Phone numbers are spread across many social media platforms, websites, and phone directories around the Internet. To glean phone numbers from the web, fraudsters use various techniques, such as web-scraping. Discover how scammers acquire your cellphone number and, more importantly, how to safeguard yourself from their tactics.
In today’s digital age, the internet is home to a myriad of information, both benign and malicious. One of the critical threats that has emerged is the prevalence of personal data exposed on the dark web. A phone number found on dark web presents several risks that individuals must be aware of.
All information, including rates and fees, are accurate as of the date of publication and are updated as provided by our partners. Some of the offers on this page may not be available through our website. A sudden increase in the number of unwanted calls you receive is typical of your number having been included in a data breach, telemarketing call list, or published on the dark web. These calls are likely to be from people fishing for more of your sensitive information (known as “phishing”) or trying to scam you outright.
Why Are Phone Numbers Sold on the Dark Web?
Personal data is a lucrative commodity for cybercriminals. Here are some reasons why phone numbers are traded:
- Identity Theft: Cybercriminals use phone numbers to impersonate individuals.
- Fraudulent Activities: Scammers utilize stolen numbers to execute scams.
- Targeted Marketing: Some malicious entities sell phone numbers for spam and phishing purposes.
Dark Web Monitoring gives you the awareness you need to take appropriate action if your data is exposed. 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.
For example, AAA offers ProtectMyID, a complementary credit monitoring service for all AAA members. Signing up for a credit monitoring service can help you keep your identify safe, while giving you peace of mind. The dark web is a hidden part of the deep web that isn’t indexed by search engines. Because of the murky anonymity of the dark web, cybercriminals can surreptitiously buy and sell information illegally, like two people meeting in a dark alley to exchange cash for illegal goods.
Can You Delete Your Phone Number From The Dark Web?
How to Know if Your Phone Number is on the Dark Web
Detecting if your phone number found on dark web can be challenging, but there are proactive steps you can take:
- Data Breach Check: Use tools like Have I Been Pwned to check associated breaches.
- Dark Web Monitoring Services: Subscribe to services that offer dark web monitoring.
- Subscription Notifications: Some credit monitoring services alert you if your information appears on the dark web.
Risks Associated with Having Your Phone Number on the Dark Web
The exposure of your phone number found on dark web can lead to various risks:
- Increased Spam Calls and Texts: Your number can be sold to telemarketers.
- Phishing Attempts: Scammers may pose as legitimate entities to gain further information.
- Social Engineering Attacks: Attackers could use your number to gain trust and manipulate you.
- Financial Exploitation: Your number may be used to access financial accounts for fraudulent transactions.
What to Do if Your Phone Number is Found on the Dark Web
If you discover that your phone number found on dark web, it’s crucial to take immediate action:
- Change Account Passwords: Update passwords for any accounts linked to the phone number.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of protection.
- Report to Authorities: Inform local authorities and consider reporting identity theft.
- Monitor Financial Statements: Keep a close eye on bank and credit card statements for unauthorized activity.
FAQs About Phone Numbers on the Dark Web
Q: How do phone numbers end up on the dark web?
A: Phone numbers can be collected through data breaches, phishing scams, or by hacking company databases.
Q: Is it possible to remove my phone number from the dark web?
A: While it’s challenging to completely erase information from the dark web, proactive monitoring and reporting can help mitigate risks.
Q: Should I be worried if my phone number is on the dark web?
A: Yes, it can lead to various types of fraud and identity theft. Taking preventative measures is essential.
Conclusion
The discovery of a phone number found on dark web can be alarming but knowing the associated risks and remedial actions can empower individuals to protect their identities and mitigate potential damages. Staying informed and proactive is key in the fight against cybercrime.
