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Can You Remove Your SSN (and Other Info) From The Dark Web?
According to Bloomberg, the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack that led to gasoline shortages on the East Coast was due to a compromised password in a system that did not have multifactor authentication. Cybernews reported that a file with 8.4 billion passwords, which have presumably been combined from previous data leaks and breaches, was posted how to enter the dark web on a hacker forum. Once a criminal has your SSN, they can open bank accounts, apply for loans and credit cards, obtain a driver’s license or ID card, and activate insurance policies using your name. Also, keep in mind that there isn’t a way to remove your SSN or any other personal information from the dark web once it exists there.
Is Your SSN Scan Tool Free To Use?
Having access to one of these services can be an even better solution, as you’ll receive immediate notifications rather than having to wait four months or longer. SSN theft is when someone uses your social security number to commit fraud. Various social engineering attacks and data breaches beyond your control threaten your SSN. It is the key to the rest of your sensitive information, and criminals can use it to rob bank accounts, open credit cards, and obtain large loans.
Sign Up For MyE-verify And “self-lock” Your SSN
To check the security of the passwords saved to your Google Account, go to Password Checkup. To be eligible for dark web report, you must have a consumer Google Account. Google Workspace accounts and supervised accounts aren’t able to use dark web report.
- Risk also arises when a user downloads pirated content containing malware like trojans, worms, and keyloggers, allowing themselves to be tracked and monitored.
- You can’t remove the info once it’s there, but you can take action to protect it and help limit fraud.
- When someone applies for a credit card, for instance, the issuer will ask for a Social Security number, along with other personal information like your name, address, and date of birth.
- Secure your entire workforce, whether on-prem or remote with Perimeter 81.
Monitor Your Credit For Free
In addition to dark web surveillance, there are other ways that identity monitoring can help protect against identity theft. When a criminal steals your SSN, they may attempt to obtain employment in your name in a type of fraud known as employment identity theft. In this scenario, the wages a thief earns are falsely reported to the Social Security Administration, the Internal Revenue Service how to get on the black web (IRS) and other government agencies in your name. Your Social Security number (SSN) is one of the most important pieces of financial information in your life. It helps you file taxes, receive income from your job, open credit accounts, qualify for retirement benefits and identify yourself to the government. Create a separate email address you can use for logging in to unimportant accounts.
A dark web monitoring tool like BreachWatch can help you do just that. If you find that there is information about you on the dark web, it may be time for you to invest in a dark web monitoring tool that constantly scans the dark web for you and notifies you with dark web alerts. One dark web monitoring tool is BreachWatch®, which works with Keeper Password Manager.
Dark Web Social Security Number: What You Need to Know
In addition to scanning for data breach information, a dark web monitoring service can be used to classify risks from unknown sources. Businesses that receive alerts when their data appears on the dark web can connect those mentions to other threat sources, and use that information to profile and mitigate threats faster. You may have seen commercial advertisements for services that monitor for identity theft. The services promise to monitor various aspects of your life and alert you to suspicious activity. Basically, they monitor your credit score, as well as online and financial activity.
In today’s digital age, protecting your personal information has never been more important. With the rise of cybercrime and identity theft, it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard your sensitive data. One piece of information that is often targeted by cybercriminals is your Social Security number (SSN).
What is a Social Security Number?
A Social Security number is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary working residents. It is used by the government to track individuals for tax purposes and to provide benefits such as Social Security retirement payments. However, in recent years, SSNs have become a valuable commodity on the dark web, where they are bought and sold for nefarious purposes.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and is only accessible through specialized software. It is often associated with illegal activity, including the sale of stolen personal information, drugs, weapons, and other illicit goods. Because of its anonymity and lack of regulation, the dark web can be a dangerous place for unsuspecting users.
How is a Social Security Number Sold on the Dark Web?
Cybercriminals often obtain SSNs through data breaches, phishing scams, and other forms of cyberattacks. Once they have obtained a large number of SSNs, they will often sell them on the dark web to other criminals who may use them for identity theft, tax fraud, or other forms of financial crime. These sales can occur on dark web marketplaces, forums, or through private messaging.
How to Protect Your Social Security Number
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of having your SSN stolen, there are steps you can take how to search in dark web to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft. Here are some tips to help protect your SSN:
- Never share your SSN with anyone unless it is necessary and you
Can you void your Social Security number?
A. Policy for void SSNs
SSA assigns SSNs to individuals when an application has been filed to request the assignment of a number. SSA does not delete, destroy, rescind, inactivate, or cancel SSNs once they are assigned.
What if my Social Security number is on the dark web?
Inform the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that your SSN has been found on the Dark Web and ask to file an identity theft report. Even if your information hasn't been used maliciously yet, filing a formal claim with the FTC can help you if you need to dispute fraudulent charges, accounts, or crimes.