How to Check If Social Security Number Found on Dark Web

Studies reveal that more than 15 million Americans fall victim to identity theft each year, meaning your Social Security Number (SSN) is more vulnerable than ever. This crucial part of your identity can open doors to fraudulent activities if it ends up in the wrong hands, especially on the dark web.

As unsettling as it may seem, your SSN could already be circulating on the dark web, making you vulnerable to identity theft and financial fraud. You might ask yourself: can I check for my social security number on dark web? And more importantly, what can you do to protect yourself? 

Find out more below!

What is the dark web and why did my SSN end up on it?

The dark web is a part of the internet hidden from conventional search engines and accessible only through specialized browsers like Tor. It’s a haven for privacy but also a murky playground for cybercriminals who can buy and sell illegal goods, including drugs, weapons, and, yes, stolen personal information like SSNs.

If your SSN is found on the dark web, it likely ended up there because of a data breach. Each year, millions of records are exposed through hacks on companies, governments, and other institutions. Cybercriminals harvest these records, including SSNs, and sell them to the highest bidder, using the profits to fuel further illegal activities.

Why should you check if your SSN is on the dark web?

The exposure of your SSN on the dark web can impact not just your financial health but also your personal life and legal standing. Here are some key reasons why you must check your SSN for dark web exposure:

Protect your financial health

Identity thieves can use your SSN to open new accounts, take out loans, or purchase credit cards in your name, leading to debt accrued under your identity and severely damaging your credit score—these financial burdens are time-consuming and costly to rectify.

Stop fraudulent transactions

With access to your SSN, criminals can not only manipulate credit but also tap into your existing financial accounts, siphoning funds or making unauthorized purchases. This kind of financial fraud can deplete your savings and investments without your immediate knowledge.

Avoid legal and tax consequences

If your SSN is misused, you could unknowingly be linked to criminal activities or face issues with the IRS due to fraudulent tax filings. Such situations often lead to complex legal battles to prove your innocence and restore your rightful standing.

How to check for social security number on dark web

PureVPN’s Dark Web Monitoring is the easiest way to check if your SSN is circulating on the dark web. It scans dark web marketplaces, forums, and databases for signs of your exposed personal information, including your SSN. Here’s how to get started: 

1. Sign up for PureVPN

First, you’ll need a PureVPN account. If you don’t have one, simply go to the order page and sign up.

2. Access Dark Web Monitoring

Once you’ve set up your account, open the Dark Web Monitoring section in the PureVPN app. 

3. Add your SSN

Enter your SSN along with any other personal information you wish to monitor, such as email addresses or phone numbers. 

4. Receive alerts

If your SSN or any other monitored details are found on the dark web, PureVPN will alert you immediately, allowing you to take quick remedial action.

5. Take action

Based on the findings, PureVPN will provide expert recommendations on how to protect yourself, which might include changing passwords, setting up multi-factor authentication (MFA), etc.

What to do if your social security number is found on dark web?

Knowing that your SSN is floating around the dark web can be concerning, but immediate and informed action can help minimize potential damage. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation:

Lock down your credit

• Initiate a credit freeze: Contact each of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Requesting a freeze makes it impossible for thieves to open new accounts in your name, which is essential in securing your financial identity. 

• Place fraud alerts: By setting fraud alerts, you make sure that any creditor must verify your identity before issuing new credit in your name. This can be a critical barrier against identity theft, providing an extra layer of security.

Review your financial statements

• Check your credit reports: Regularly review your credit reports for any unauthorized activities or accounts. You can access free annual credit reports from each of the major bureaus, and consider subscribing to additional monitoring for more frequent updates.

• Monitor bank and credit card statements: Make sure to check your bank and credit card statements. Be on the lookout for any transactions that don’t seem to add up and report them immediately to mitigate any potential damage.

Report the incident

• Notify the FTC: Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission. This site can also assist you in developing a detailed recovery plan tailored to your specific situation. 

• File a police report: If your identity theft includes fraudulent activities that could lead to criminal implications, consider filing a police report. This adds an official layer of documentation that can be crucial for clearing your name.

Strengthen your online security

• Reset passwords: Update the passwords on all your important accounts. Set complex passwords and avoid using the same password across multiple sites. A password manager can help manage these securely. 

• Enable multi-factor authentication: For added security, activate multi-factor authentication on all your accounts, especially those involving sensitive personal or financial information. 

Stay vigilant

• Sign up for monitoring services: Consider credit monitoring or identity theft protection services. They provide alerts about new credit inquiries, suspicious transactions, and changes to your credit score. 

• Educate yourself about cybersecurity: Stay informed about the latest security threats and protective measures. The more you know, the better you can protect yourself against future risks. 

How to protect your SSN from exposure on the dark web 

Protecting your SSN from ending up on the dark web is crucial for maintaining your privacy and security. Here are some proactive steps you can take to safeguard your SSN:

Be vigilant against phishing attempts

Cybercriminals often use sophisticated phishing tactics to trick you into revealing your SSN and other personal information. Always be cautious with emails and messages that ask for sensitive data. Verify the sender’s credibility and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or suspicious sources. 

Limit sharing your SSN

Share your SSN only when absolutely necessary, such as for tax purposes, credit applications, or employment verification. When asked for your SSN, inquire why it is needed, how it will be used, and what measures are in place to protect it.

Use secure internet connections

Avoid entering personal information when connected to public Wi-Fi networks, as these can be insecure. For enhanced security, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which encrypts your internet connection and protects your data from being intercepted by unauthorized parties. 

Keep your software updated

Regular software updates are important as they often include patches that fix security vulnerabilities. Make sure that your operating system, applications, and web browsers are always up-to-date to protect against new threats. 

Secure physical documents

Keep your social security card and any documents that contain your SSN in a safe place. Shred documents that contain personal information before disposing of them to prevent identity thieves from accessing your data from your trash.

Frequently Asked Questions