Understanding the Implications of a Phone Number Found on the Dark Web
An unexpected drop in your credit score can indicate illegal activity, fraud or identity theft. You should take any unexpected change seriously, even if it doesn’t trigger an automated fraud alert. Strengthening the security of your online accounts is essential to protect your phone number. Use app-based authenticators or security keys whenever possible to enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access.
One major downside is that friends and family members may continue to call your old number, or trust messages coming from it. This puts them at risk if scammers continue using your old number for fraudulent activities. Look out for texts and messages on WhatsApp or Telegram that try to spread viruses to your mobile phone.
Scammers get your phone number and then make scam calls to con you of money, financial and other sensitive information. From filling out online forms to logging in to your bank account, you use your phone number to confirm your identity. We spoke to dozens of victims on the phone and in person, but not one person said they received any notice from the city their personal and/or financial information was impacted.
Once your reports are frozen, creditors can’t access your credit report to make new lending decisions. However, your report can still be accessed for other reasons, such as if your current creditor wants to review your report or if you want to check your credit. The only way to make your phone number unsearchable online is to get it off all the people search sites and other data brokers that are listing it. You can do this manually, by approaching each data broker individually or by signing up for an automated personal information removal service like Incogni.
The results include public Twitter profile data, such as names, usernames, and follower counts. While trolling through the dark web this week, I found my Twitter account’s data. Meanwhile, Immuniweb’s full-time security experts handle the most complicated tasks—tasks that require nothing less than human intelligence. By simulating attacks on sensitive information, ImmuniWeb helps clients determine (and fix) key points of vulnerability. Some of their clients include PwC – PricewaterhouseCoopers, eBay, and the Global Cyber Alliance. Dashlane offers 3 different plan tiers to meet your specific security needs.
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that requires special software to access. Often associated with illegal activities, the dark web is also a marketplace for personal information, including phone numbers. Discovering a phone number found on the dark web can have serious implications for individuals and organizations.
What To Do If Your Phone Number is Found on the Dark Web
If you discover that your phone number is circulating on the dark web, it’s essential to take action. Here are steps you should consider:
- Assess the situation: Determine where your number was found and what type of exposure you may be facing.
- Change security settings: Update privacy settings on social media and other online accounts associated with your phone number.
- Monitor accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and online accounts for any unusual activity.
- Consider identity theft protection: Services can help monitor your personal information and alert you if it appears on the dark web.
- Report the incident: Notify your phone carrier and law enforcement if you suspect malicious activity.
That would be an FCC thing and probably other governmental agencies so it’s not gonna happen. People who purchase or provide info on the dark web are usually very sophisticated in how they use and manipulate that info. If you’ve ever purchased a home, a car, or anything, and had to supply your phone number, email address, home address, ad naseum your info has been collated, packaged, and sold on the dark web. @vernonhc they have waved both charges for me when I brought up the issue. Ive only been a customer for 3 months and have had to change 2 numbers already. I am sorry it happened to you as well and I’m worried for everyone else.
How To Access The Dark Web On Iphone
Scammers will do everything in their power to gain access to your accounts, and your Social Security number is one of their favorite targets. It’s especially important to complete a fraud report if you are going to dispute fraudulent charges; otherwise, there’s no proof of your being a victim. Unfortunately, it’s virtually impossible to remove your SSN or other information from the Dark Web once it’s been put up for sale. Some thieves will even go through the trash to look for documents containing personal data.
- HaveIBeenPwned is a way to check if your information may have been collected during a hack.
- In addition, that could block suspicious tools installed on your devices without your knowledge.
- Scammers get your phone number exactly for this reason, and they illegally get your number via the following methods.
- To summarize, if you find your email address or mobile phone number compromised in data breaches and leaked on the dark web, it’s time to secure your accounts with a new, strong password.
- To avoid issues in the future, make sure to change your number or report it to your service provider.
The Risks Associated With Exposure
Having a phone number found on the dark web can lead to various risks, including:
- Phishing Attacks: Scammers can use your phone number to target you with fraudulent messages or calls.
- Spam Calls and Texts: Your number may be sold to telemarketers or spammers, resulting in increased unsolicited communications.
- Identity Theft: Criminals can use your information to impersonate you or gain access to sensitive accounts.
- Physical Threats: In severe cases, personal data can lead to swatting or harassment.
How Phone Numbers End Up on the Dark Web
Several methods are commonly used to harvest phone numbers for illicit purposes:
- Data Breaches: Cybercriminals often steal personal information from companies and leak it on the dark web.
- Social Engineering: Techniques used to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information.
- Malware: Software designed to damage or gain unauthorized access can capture data, including phone numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if I find my phone number on the dark web?
Follow the steps mentioned earlier, including securing your online accounts and monitoring for suspicious activity.
Can I remove my phone number from the dark web?
While it’s challenging to remove information from the dark web, you can take preventive measures to secure your data moving forward.
What are some signs that my phone number is compromised?
Signs include receiving unusual calls, unsolicited messages, or notices of account activity you didn’t initiate.
In conclusion, finding a phone number found on the dark web can be a troubling discovery. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can help mitigate potential issues and protect your identity.
