How to Check if Your Phone Number is Found on the Dark Web

In 2023, a scam in Pennsylvania led to the theft of around $2 million after fraudsters impersonated bank employees. By spoofing caller IDs and convincing victims to share their online banking credentials, these scammers gained access to their accounts, wiping out their entire savings. 

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the scammers were able to get ahold of the victims’ phone numbers in the first place. Data breaches happen every day, exposing the personal details of thousands, if not millions, and making them easy targets for scammers.

As a matter of fact, there were more than 3,200 data breaches in the U.S. in 2023, which impacted over 353 million individuals. When breaches like these happen, the compromised information usually ends up on the dark web, where bad actors are ready to pay any price to get their hands on it. 

So, can you check if your phone number is found on dark web too? Let’s find out!

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

The dark web is often shrouded in mystery, and while you’ve probably heard about it, the reality is far more alarming than most realize. It’s a hidden part of the internet—only accessible via specialized browsers like Tor—where illegal activities happen every day.

Dark web markets, for example, are huge virtual spaces for the buying and selling of stolen details. We’re talking driver’s licenses, ID cards, bank statements, credit card info, passports, and phone numbers.

Now, you’re probably asking yourself: why would anyone want to sell my phone number on the dark web? Well, so they can use it for fraud, scam calls, or identity theft and make money off your misfortune.

Why should I check if my phone number is on the dark web?

Why is it so important to check if your phone number is floating around the dark web? There are several reasons it could lead to more trouble than you think:

Scam calls

Scammers don’t need much to get started—they only need your phone number to target you with scam calls. They might pose as the IRS, the FBI, or even pretend to offer a free vacation or a new iPhone. The more personal information they have about you, the harder it will be for you to spot a scam when it comes. 

Phone number takeover

SIM swapping is another dangerous trick. Hackers can manipulate your phone provider into transferring your number to their own device. Once they have control, they can access your email, social media, and even your bank accounts—all by using your phone number. 

Text message scams 

SMS phishing, or “smishing,” is a growing problem, and it’s all about tricking you through texts. Scammers might pretend to be companies you know and trust, like Amazon, Netflix, or even the government. Their goal? To get you to hand over personal details or even financial information. 

Doxxing 

In the worst-case scenario, if your phone number is in the wrong hands, it could lead to doxing or blackmail. Hackers might use your number to access sensitive information, including private photos in your cloud storage, and then threaten to release this data unless you pay a ransom.

How to check if your phone number is found on the dark web

Using PureVPN’s Dark Web Monitoring is one of the best ways to check if your phone number is floating around on the dark web. It continuously scans the dark web for exposed personal data, including phone numbers, email addresses, credit card information, etc.

If your data is found, you are notified immediately and provided with expert recommendations so you can act fast and take the necessary steps to protect yourself from further harm. Here’s how to get started with it:

1. Sign up for PureVPN 

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

2. Access Dark Web Monitoring 

Once your account is set up, head to the Dark Web Monitoring section in the PureVPN app.

3. Add your phone number 

Add your phone number (and other details like email addresses) to the monitoring list. 

4. Receive alerts 

If your phone number or other personal info are found on the dark web, you’ll receive immediate notifications, allowing you to take appropriate action.

5. Take action 

Besides notifying you, PureVPN will guide you on the next steps. From freezing accounts to filing reports, you’ll know exactly what to do to secure your information.

• Read: Best Dark Web Websites You Should Explore in 2025

What should I do if my phone number is found on the dark web?

If your phone number is found on the dark web, here’s what you can do to protect yourself: 

Start using a password manager 

Using weak or reused passwords makes you vulnerable. Make sure to create strong, unique passwords for each account. A password manager can help you keep track of them. 

Consider an authenticator app for MFA

SMS-based MFA is risky. If your phone number is compromised, hackers can intercept these codes. Use an authenticator app for a more secure form of multi-factor authentication. 

Use phone carrier protection

SIM swapping is a real threat. Contact your phone carrier to enable additional security features like a PIN or password to prevent someone from hijacking your phone number. 

Set or change your SIM PIN 

If your SIM card doesn’t have a PIN, now is the time to set one. If it already has one, change it to add an extra layer of security. 

Monitor your bank and credit activity 

While identity theft isn’t guaranteed, it’s always good to be cautious. Keep an eye on your bank accounts for suspicious activity and consider signing up for credit monitoring services. 

Be wary of unknown calls and texts 

Scammers may start reaching out more frequently. Be cautious of unsolicited calls and texts and don’t share any personal information without verifying who’s reaching out. 

Sign up for a data removal service 

To reduce further exposure of your personal information, use a data removal service that helps protect your data from being sold or exposed on data broker sites.

How to prevent your phone number from ending up on the dark web

Taking proactive steps to protect your phone number can help reduce the risk of it ending up on the dark web. Here’s how:

Limit the information you share online 

Be mindful of what you post on social media. Scrub your profiles of any personal details like your phone number, address, or email address. If you no longer use certain accounts, consider deleting them to reduce your digital footprint. The less personal information you share publicly, the less likely it is to be exploited.

Keep sensitive details to yourself

Only share sensitive information, like your driver’s license or Social Security number, when absolutely necessary. Many organizations offer alternatives for people who prefer not to share these documents online. Always ask if there’s a way to verify your identity without exposing such sensitive data. 

Use privacy settings wisely 

Adjust your privacy settings on social media and other online platforms. Make sure only trusted individuals can view your personal information, and make use of privacy tools available to you. This reduces the chances of your phone number and other details being scraped by data brokers.

Avoid clicking suspicious links

Be cautious when clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages. Phishing attacks often try to steal your personal data through deceptive links. This can help prevent scammers from collecting more details about you.

Frequently Asked Questions