In today’s digital age, identity theft is a growing concern for many individuals. One of the most valuable pieces of personal information that can be used for identity theft is a Social Security number. Unfortunately, Social Security numbers can be found on the dark web, a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and requires special software to access.
Can I freeze my SSN online?
You can also place what's known as a self-lock on your SSN through E-Verify® at www.e-verify.gov, a government service that employers use to confirm a job applicant's eligibility to work.
This allows them to access funds illegally and engage in activities such as money laundering and embezzlement. If someone obtains your SSN, you may find evidence of unlawful use in your bank, credit, or other accounts. Consider setting up alerts with your financial institutions to flag unusual activity, such as withdrawals or purchases over a certain amount.
What To Do If Your Social Security Number Is Compromised
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and requires special software, such as Tor, to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information. Because of its anonymity, the dark web is a popular place for cybercriminals to buy and sell stolen data, including Social Security numbers.
Lost Or Stolen Social Security Card? What You Need To Know
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.
You’ll get a free alert when a new credit inquiry appears on your Experian® credit report. We’ll proactively monitor your card and account for any fraudulent activity. One of the most common scams is a phone call telling you that your SSN has been suspended due to suspicious activity or because it’s been involved in a crime.
Credit Scores5 Tips To Help Protect Your Credit
How Did My Social Security Number End Up on the Dark Web?
There are several ways that your Social Security number could have ended up on the dark web. Some of the most common include:
- There are all sorts of ways your personal information can wind up on the dark web.
- Short for “The Onion Router”, Tor routes your web traffic through multiple layers (hence the onion metaphor). This process makes your IP address and browsing activity untraceable.
- She spends most of her time between her two feline friends and traveling.
- It’s also good practice to keep an eye on your credit report so that you can spot and report any errors or accounts someone is trying to open in your name.
- Data breaches: Cybercriminals often target companies and government agencies to steal large amounts of personal information, including Social Security numbers.
- Phishing scams: Cybercriminals may send emails or text messages that appear to be from a trusted source, asking for personal information, including Social Security numbers.
- Malware: Cybercriminals can use malware to infect your computer or mobile device and steal personal information, including Social Security numbers.
Google News alerts can also be set up to inform you of breaches involving businesses you use, like your bank or ISP. Stolen Social Security numbers can be used in fraud relating to taxes, unemployment insurance, loans, credit cards and more. One buyer from the SSNDOB site used stolen information that he bought to steal and launder nearly $10 million, according to the U.S. Read on to learn more about dark web monitoring and how it can help protect you from having your accounts compromised and your identity stolen. Our suite of security features can help you protect your info, money and give you peace of mind. See how we’re dedicated to helping protect you, your accounts and your loved ones from financial abuse.
What Can I Do if My Social Security Number is on the Dark Web?
Submit A Social Security Fraud Report
You’ve probably already changed your password for the discovered sites and implemented MFA too. ID Security can scan the internet and the dark web for all your personal information including up to 5 email addresses and bank account numbers, 10 credit card numbers, your Social Security number, and lots more. You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year. You can request your reports online at AnnualCreditReport.com, which is the official website authorized by the U.S. government.
If you suspect that your Social Security number is on the dark web, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Place a fraud alert on your credit reports: Contact one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) and ask them to place a fraud alert on your credit reports. This will require lenders to verify your identity before extending credit in your name.
- Monitor your credit reports: Regularly check your credit reports for any suspicious activity, such as new accounts that you did not open or inquiries that you did not authorize.
- Consider a credit freeze: A credit freeze restricts access to your credit reports, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to open new accounts in your name.
- File your taxes early: Cybercriminals often use stolen Social Security numbers to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds. Filing your taxes early can help prevent this type of fraud.
FAQs
What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?
The deep web refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by search engines, while the dark web is a part of the deep web that requires special software to access and is often associated with illegal activities.
Can I access the dark web on my regular web browser?
No, you cannot access the dark web on a regular web browser. You will need to use special software, such as Tor, to access the dark web.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, it is not illegal to access the dark web. However, many of the activities that take place on the dark web are illegal, and accessing the dark web can put you at risk of encountering illegal content.
How can I protect myself from identity theft?
Some ways to protect yourself from identity theft include using strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts, being cautious of phishing scams, keeping your computer and mobile devices updated with the latest security patches, and regularly monitoring your credit reports for suspicious activity.
Is it safe to enter your SSN online?
Don't enter your SSN into your phone, laptop, or other devices. It would be rare for you to need your card. Typically, reciting the number is all that's required. Keep the number in your head and the card locked up at home.
