Protecting Your Social Security Number on the Dark Web

The company found that buyers are currently willing to pay just $1 for a Social Security number, which is the same amount they’ll pay for user and password information to Brazzers, a pornographic website. Access to someone’s PayPal (PYPL) account is the most valuable asset at up to $80, depending on the available balance. The dark web is the part of the internet that isn’t indexed and can’t be found using search engines. While there are legitimate uses for it, this part of the internet is also home to black markets selling personal information. On the dark web, SSNs (social security numbers) can be bought or sold for a couple of dollars.

In today’s digital age, our personal information is more valuable than ever. With the rise of the dark web, a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities thrive, it has become increasingly important to protect sensitive information such as your social security number.

What Do I Do If My SSN Is On The Dark Web

What is the Dark Web?

The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often used for illegal activities such as selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. Due to its anonymity, it has become a haven for cybercriminals looking to buy and sell personal information.

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SSNs don’t sell for much compared with other more lucrative documents such as medical records, which often retail for $2,000 per file. However, you needn’t sink into the depths of the dark web in search of your SSN. There are safer ways to determine whether your SSN landed on the dark web and if it is available to criminals shopping the cyber black market. If your PII surfaces on a cybercrime forum or website, there are ways for you to receive early notifications. Scammers will do everything in their power to gain access to your accounts, and your Social Security number is one of their favorite targets.

Why is Your Social Security Number Valuable on the Dark Web?

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Your social security number is a key piece of information used to verify your identity. Cybercriminals can use it to apply for credit cards, loans, or even commit identity theft. Once your social security number is compromised, it can be sold on the dark web to the highest bidder.

The second report from MyFico, showed some incomplete name and another social security number but listed with my current cell phone number. I am going to have to get ahold of someone at MyFico, and see what I have to do about that one. In the U.S., monitoring tools such as CreditWise from Capital One or Experian’s Dark Web Triple Scan are good places to start.

How to Protect Your Social Security Number

1. Monitor Your Credit Report: Regularly check your credit report for any suspicious activity.

Pretty much EVERY US citizens SSN/D.O.B./former address is on the dark web. The equifax data breach along with several other major breaches (linkedin, target, etc…) Have leaked all of the private information. If you find out your details were sold on the dark web, you might be wondering exactly how they ended up there. Discover is the only major credit card issuer to offer such an alert for free. However, this alert is also available through other third-party programs.

2. Use Strong Passwords: Use complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts.
3. Avoid Sharing Your SSN: Never share your social security number online unless absolutely necessary.
4. Secure Your Devices: Keep your devices updated with the latest security patches and antivirus software.
5. Consider Freezing Your Credit: Consider placing a freeze on your credit to prevent unauthorized access.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Criminals convert virtual gold and unique virtual goods obtained by the victim’s character for real-world money.
• In fact, U.S. military researchers created dark web technology to send and receive messages anonymously.
• Even if your SSN is on the dark web, it doesn’t mean those details are being used.
• They usually check your credit reports, and some will monitor your financial accounts as well.
• With identity monitoring through McAfee Identity Protection, you’ll receive notifications if we find your personal information on the dark web.
• One of the features of Tor is that it disguises the computer that is being used to reach the internet, providing a high degree of privacy.

• Can I check if my SSN is on the dark web?

There are services available that can scan the dark web for your personal information, including your social security number. It’s recommended to use these services to monitor any potential breaches.

• What should I do if my SSN is compromised?

If you suspect that your social security number has been compromised, contact the major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your accounts and monitor for any fraudulent activity.

By taking proactive steps to protect your social security number, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft on the dark web. Stay vigilant and safeguard your personal information from falling into the wrong hands.