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The Dark Web and Stolen Credit Card Numbers
When a hacker writes up new malware, steals a database, or phishes someone for their credit card number, the next step is often toward dark net marketplaces. These black markets allow buyers and sellers to make anonymous transactions using a combination of encrypted messages, aliases, and cryptocurrency. While the dark web can also be a secure place for us to access information and communicate with one another, it’s often used by vendors of illegal goods and services.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access and is often associated with illegal activities, including the trade of stolen credit card numbers.
How Stolen Credit Card Numbers Are Obtained
BleepingComputer has discussed the authenticity with analysts at D3Lab, who confirmed that the data is real with several Italian banks, so the leaked entries correspond to real cards and cardholders. In addition to the above post on the carding market site, the market’s admins also hyped the giveaway on popular forums, with feedback from other members far from universally positive. For example, the February 2023 post below from a popular cybercrime forum garnered 12 responses. While a fair share of these were standard “congratulations” replies, several forum members chimed in to denigrate the carding market site and question the value of its wares. Use a search engine that works only on the Dark Web, such as DuckDuckGo or Startpage, which are private search engines only available there.
I tried to look up what Phoenix news outlets covered this hack and only one small tech website did. My guess is that the zoo never went public with this breach and when the evidence about it came up years later in Roman’s trial, it was just too old to be a news story anymore. See, the FBI and Secret Service can request from Yahoo to view e-mails for certain people if a warrant is processed.
Keeping your credit card information safe can prevent it from being published on the dark web and used for malicious purposes. If you don’t take the proper steps to secure your credit card information, you place yourself at risk of becoming a victim of identity theft which is not easy or quick to recover from. Spoofed websites are sites that have been made to look legitimate but are actually designed to steal your sensitive information.
A hacked Netflix 1-year subscription retails at $25; an HBO account is $4, a Bet365 account is $40, and a hacked Uber account will set a cybercriminal back $15. Award-winning identity theft protection with AI-powered digital security tools, 24/7 White Glove support, and more. Instead, scammers use what’s called “no card present” theft to make purchases through online retailers. Often, they’ll buy gift cards (like Google Play cards) as they’re easy to resell, can’t be traced, and don’t require shipping.
But an investigation was launched in 2015 after the high end German brand learned that bikes were being purchased using stolen card details. We compared the statistical card data between countries with UN population stats and the number of cards in circulation by country or region from Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. This process allowed us to calculate a risk index to more directly compare how likely your card is to be available on the dark web by country.
Some cards you buy might be old, expired, or already cancelled due to someone else using it, or it being reported stolen. They have a high success rate like 60%, 80%, and they have a big inventory. The Federal Trade Commission reported over 2.4 million cases of fraud in the U.S. in 2022. Credit card fraud has become so normalized that banks offer 24/7 hotlines specifically for victims to report lost and stolen cards. Though always a hassle, the process of handling credit card fraud can be relatively painless for consumers. But as data breaches, online shopping and virtual economies become more common, credit card fraud is expected to continue rising.
Criminals acquire stolen credit card numbers through various methods, including:
- Phishing Attacks: Fraudulent emails or websites designed to trick users into providing personal information.
- Data Breaches: Cybercriminals hack into databases of retailers or financial institutions to steal large volumes of credit card data.
- Malware: Software designed to infiltrate computers and collect sensitive information without the user’s knowledge.
- Card Skimmers: Devices attached to ATMs or point-of-sale systems that capture card information when users swipe their cards.
The Marketplace for Stolen Credit Card Numbers
Once acquired, stolen credit card numbers are often sold on various dark web marketplaces. These marketplaces operate similarly to legitimate e-commerce sites, complete with user reviews, ratings, and multiple listings. The prices for these stolen numbers can vary widely based on several factors:
- Card Limit: Higher limits generally fetch higher prices.
- Card Type: Certain brands, like American Express, may be more valuable than others.
- Geographical Location: Cards from wealthier countries can be sold at a premium.
- Threat actors also use other well-known social media outlets such as twitter to advertise their goods.
- Data breaches in APAC are on the rise, experiencing a 27 percent year-on-year increase.
- The drug game is old news for some young hustlers, and credit card fraud (cracking cards) has taken its place.
- This was followed by cards from Japan, Portugal and Ukraine, all over $11 on average.
Risks Associated with Dark Web Stolen Credit Card Numbers
The use of stolen credit card numbers poses several risks, both for the victim and the perpetrator:
- Identity Theft: Victims may suffer from significant financial and reputational harm.
- Legal Consequences: Individuals involved in purchasing or using stolen information can face severe legal penalties.
- Bank Relationships: Affected individuals may find it challenging to gain credit or open bank accounts in the future.
Protecting Yourself from Credit Card Theft
To safeguard against the theft of your credit card information, consider the following preventive measures:
- Use Secure Connections: Always shop on secure websites that use HTTPS.
- Regularly Monitor Statements: Check bank and credit card statements frequently for any unauthorized transactions.
- Employ Strong Passwords: Use complex passwords and change them regularly for all online accounts.
- Enable Alerts: Set up alerts with your bank for transactions over a certain amount.
FAQs About Dark Web Stolen Credit Card Numbers
What should I do if I find unauthorized charges on my credit card?
Contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately to report the fraudulent charges and request a card replacement.
Can stolen credit card numbers be used forever?
No, there is usually a limited time frame where stolen credit card numbers remain valid as banks employ fraud detection systems that monitor unusual activity.
Is it illegal to browse dark web marketplaces?
While simply browsing the dark web is not illegal, engaging in illegal activities, such as purchasing stolen credit card numbers, is against the law.
Conclusion
Understanding the dark web and the implications of stolen credit card numbers is crucial in today’s digital world. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect personal information, individuals can safeguard themselves from potential threats associated with financial crimes.
