Create A Social Security Account Online
But having your personal information exposed on the dark web can make it easier for others to access and use your identity. If you’ve used your SSN when signing up for an account, and that account becomes compromised, potentially so does your SSN. If you store personal information on a cloud service such as Dropbox, a data breach could allow others to access that information. Some credit monitoring services, such as Experian and Capital One, have dark web scanning tools which explicitly search for your SSN. In some cases, cybercriminals may already have some of your information but still need your address or phone number to access your accounts. Most cyberattacks rely on multiple scams, including phishing and other forms of manipulation, to uncover the data they need.
Understanding the Risks of Your Social Security Number on Dark Web
It is important to note that not everything on the Dark Web is illegal. The Dark Web also serves as a platform for political activists, whistleblowers, and journalists to communicate anonymously and share sensitive information without fear of reprisal. However, the anonymity provided by the Dark Web also attracts criminal elements who exploit its features for malicious purposes. If you are sure one of your accounts has been compromised on the dark web, it is a good idea to close the account. Closing the compromised account will render the account useless to identity thieves. Take advantage of credit monitoring and more with CreditWise, a free app for everyone.
Regularly checking your credit reports with credit bureaus can tip you off to identify theft early before the damage becomes too severe. This hidden part of the internet is a haven for hackers because of its anonymity. It’s the perfect marketplace for cybercriminals looking to sell or buy stolen passwords, Social Security numbers and other sensitive information.
If you receive an unsolicited message asking to share your Social Security number, you should avoid it as it is most likely a phishing scam. To prevent threat actors from abusing your Social Security number and avoid the damaging effects of identity theft, you need to protect your Social Security number. Here are the ways you can protect your Social Security number from getting stolen. When filing your taxes, you may get rejected because someone has already filed them without your permission. You may also get notified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding any suspicious activity regarding your taxes.
You can submit the form online, or you can complete the fillable form to fax or mail. If you were prevented from filing, you can submit the form with your paper tax return if someone else has already filed a return using your SSN. If your return was rejected due to someone claiming your dependent’s social security number, you will need to file a separate Form for them.
It’s necessary for you and your loved ones to always stay vigilant and know how to protect yourself from Social Security-related fraud. Search online or contact regulators to see if complaints have been filed against the company, too. If you have not lost the card itself, but someone steals and uses your account number, you generally have no liability for unauthorized use.
The importance of protecting your social security number cannot be overstated, especially in today’s digital age, where cybercrime is rampant. One of the most concerning aspects of digital security is the potential for your social security number on dark web platforms.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines, making it accessible only through specific software, configurations, or authorization. It operates anonymously, allowing users to hide their identities and activities.
Key Characteristics of the Dark Web:
- Requires special browsers like Tor to access.
- Hosts both legal and illegal content.
- Offers a high level of anonymity to users.
The Value of a Social Security Number
A social security number is a unique identifier assigned to individuals, primarily used for tracking earnings and benefits in the United States. However, it has greater implications in the realm of identity theft.
Reasons Cybercriminals Want Your Social Security Number:
- To commit fraud, such as opening credit accounts under your name.
- To gain access to personal financial information.
- To impersonate someone and create fake identities for criminal activities.
The Dangers of Exposing Your Social Security Number on Dark Web
If your social security number appears on the dark web, it can lead to numerous security threats. Here are some critical dangers:
- Identity Theft: Fraudsters can use your number to impersonate you, opening accounts or applying for loans in your name.
- Fraudulent Tax Claims: Criminals may file false tax returns to claim refunds, causing complications with the IRS.
- Access to Social Security Benefits: Hackers can potentially redirect your social security benefits to their accounts.
How Your Social Security Number Gets Exposed
Your social security number can end up on the dark web through various means, including:
- Data breaches from businesses, hospitals, or educational institutions.
- Phishing scams where users inadvertently provide their information.
- Malware that steals information stored on personal devices.
Signs Your Social Security Number is Compromised
- After you sign up, you can see when a data breach occurred, what was breached, where it was breached from (the website), and also see actions that you need to take to fix the problem.
- It requires special software, such as Tor, to access websites that are not indexed by search engines and carry an anonymous presence.
- Ask your bank or credit card provider to close your cards and bank accounts to stop any additional purchases or withdrawals.
- The Auriemma Consulting Group completed analysis which suggests that losses due to synthetic identity fraud topped $6 billion dollars last year.
Being vigilant can help you identify if your social security number is compromised:
- Unusual transactions on your accounts.
- Receiving bills or medical claims for services you didn’t use.
- Notification from the IRS about unusual activity associated with your tax filings.
What to Do if Your Social Security Number on Dark Web is Found
Should you discover that your social security number is available on the dark web, taking immediate action is critical:
- Freeze Your Credit: Contact major credit bureaus to place a freeze on your credit report.
- Monitor Your Financial Accounts: Review bank statements and credit reports regularly for unauthorized activity.
- Report Identity Theft: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to create an identity theft recovery plan.
FAQs About Social Security Number on Dark Web
How can I check if my social security number is on the dark web?
There are various online services that monitor the dark web for your personal information. These may require a subscription, but they can alert you if your social security number is found.
Is it safe to share my social security number online?
It is generally not safe to share your social security number online unless absolutely necessary. Always verify the legitimacy of the website and necessity for sharing this sensitive information.
How often should I check for social security number exposure?
Regular monitoring is recommended. Check your accounts and consider using credit monitoring services that provide alerts for suspicious activity.
In conclusion, understanding the threats associated with your social security number on dark web is crucial for maintaining your safety in a digital world. Awareness and proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk of identity theft.
