By reporting the incident to the authorities, you contribute to the collective effort in combating cybercrime and protect yourself from potential identity theft. Act swiftly to ensure that necessary investigations can be carried out and appropriate measures can be taken to safeguard your personal information. It’s important to note that not all activities on the dark web are illegal. Whistleblowers, journalists, and individuals living under oppressive regimes may use the dark web to share sensitive information and protect their identities. Nevertheless, the anonymity provided by the dark web has become synonymous with criminal activities.
Identity theft is a serious concern, and one of the most important pieces of personal information that can be used for this purpose is your Social Security number (SSN). Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for SSNs to end up on the dark web, where they can be bought and sold by cybercriminals.
They may even make a driver’s license or medical insurance card using your information and then use the documents if they’re arrested or want to get a medical procedure. SIM swapping is when someone temporarily takes over your phone line using the same SIM swapping procedure that you’d use to activate a new phone. Criminals do this by tricking or paying off mobile phone carriers’ employees. They then can have your text message MFA codes sent to a phone they control so they can access your accounts. Get more from a personalized relationship offering no everyday banking fees, priority service from a dedicated team and special perks and benefits. Connect with a Chase Private Client Banker at your nearest Chase branch to learn about eligibility requirements and all available benefits.
What is the Dark Web?
You want to make it as difficult as possible for an identity thief to access those accounts, and protecting them with strong passwords is an easy step to take. Remember, you are not responsible for these fraudulent purchases, but you must report them. Ask your bank or credit card provider to close your cards and bank accounts to stop any additional purchases or withdrawals.
Report Your Lost Social Security Card To The IRS
Even if a cybercriminal steals one of your passwords in a data breach, they will only be able to access one account. If you receive an alert that your information has been compromised, it’s worth changing your sign-in information as quickly as possible. Tax-related identity theft is when someone uses your Social Security number to file a false tax return claiming a fraudulent refund.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and can only be accessed using special software, such as the Tor browser. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of stolen personal information, drugs, and weapons.
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How Does a SSN End Up on the Dark Web?
Can I check my SSN status online?
On the My Home page scroll down to the Your Benefit Applications section and select View Details under the More Info heading. View your application status in the Current Status section. Check the status of your Social Security application online today!
There are a number of ways that a SSN can end up on the dark web, including data breaches, phishing scams, and theft. Once a SSN is obtained by a cybercriminal, it can be sold and resold multiple times, making it difficult to track and stop the illegal activity.
What Can You Do to Protect Your SSN?
There are several steps you can take to protect your SSN and reduce the risk of it ending up on the dark web:
Helpful Tips To Prevent Identity Theft Online
- Never give out your SSN unless it is absolutely necessary and you are sure that the request is legitimate.
- Regularly check your credit report for any unusual activity.
- Consider placing a freeze on your credit report to prevent top darknet markets anyone from opening new accounts in your name.
- Consider investing in an identity theft protection service.
What happens if a scammer gets your SSN?
With your SSN and other personal information easily found online, scammers can commit credit card fraud, open new accounts, and receive medical care in your name — as well as siphon away your Social Security benefits.
What Should You Do if Your SSN is on the Dark Web?
Update All Compromised Passwords And Enable 2FA
If you suspect that your SSN is on the dark web, it is important to take action as soon as possible. You should:
- Contact the three major credit bureaus and place a fraud alert on your credit report.
- Contact the Social Security Administration to report the theft and request a new SSN.
- File a police report and contact the Federal Trade guns on dark web Commission to report the identity theft.
- Consider working with an identity theft recovery service to help you navigate the process and protect your identity moving forward.
FAQs
Q: Can I access the dark web to see if my SSN is being sold?
A: It is not recommended to access the dark web yourself, as it can be dangerous and illegal. Instead, consider working how to buy drugs on the darknet with an experienced professional or an identity theft recovery service to help you investigate and protect your identity.
Q: How can I tell if my SSN is being used for fraud?
A: You can check your credit report for any unusual activity, such as new accounts or inquiries that you don’t recognize. You should also how can i buy fentanyl be on the lookout for any unusual mail, such as bills for accounts you didn’t open, or calls from debt collectors about debts you don’t owe.
- Therefore, taking precautionary measures is better than applying for a new SSN.
- There are also VPNs and password managers that monitor the dark web for data breaches that may affect you.
- To find out if your information is on the dark web, use our free dark web scan.
Q: Can I get a new SSN if mine is on the dark web?
A: Yes, you can request a new SSN from the Social Security Administration if you can prove that your current SSN is being used for fraud. However, this should be a last resort, as it can be a lengthy and complicated process.
What to do if SSN gets leaked?
If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, you can request to Block Electronic Access. This is done by calling our National 800 number (Toll Free 1-800-772-1213 or at our TTY number at 1-800-325-0778).
