What to Do if Your Social Security Number is Found on the Dark Web
No one ever thinks they’ll get hacked until they do.
Recently, a family member of mine received an alert from Experian that her Social Security number was found on the dark web. This was a result of a cyberattack on AT&T and its customer database. She was distraught and needed to take immediate action. Today’s blog article will give you guidance and steps to take when you find yourself in this vulnerable situation.
What Action To Take if Your Social Security Number is Exposed
Learning that your personal information is available online to hackers is a very unnerving feeling. Fraudsters who have access to your information can gain access to your financials, tax returns, and social security benefits.
A compromised Social Security number poses significantly greater problems than other types of hacked personal data. Your Social Security number is yours for life. When it is compromised, hackers are a step closer to stealing your identity.
Here are steps to take to protect yourself:
1. Contact Your Bank & Review Account Activity
- Review Your Bank Statement and Credit Card History: Look for any unauthorized purchases.
- Notify Your Bank: Inform them that your information has been breached.
- Change Your Password: Update your bank log-in credentials and set up two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This is a powerful defense tool requiring a second form of identification, greatly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
2. Monitor Your Credit Report
- Get a Free Credit Report: Obtain it from Annual Credit Report (annualcreditreport.com)
- Check for Unrecognized Accounts or Charges: Look for anything you don’t recognize.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Report any unfamiliar accounts or charges at IdentityTheft.gov. (https://www.identitytheft.gov/)
3. Consider a Credit Freeze
- Temporary Restriction: This prevents new credit accounts from being opened in your name. You can lift the restriction at any time.
4. Consider Placing a Fraud Alert
- Fraud Alert: This alert warns creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.
Other Tips to Keep Your Money Safe
Understand that hackers and financial scammers are on the rise, becoming increasingly effective as technology and artificial intelligence improve. Here are a few additional ways to protect your money:
- Use Unique Passwords: Ensure each online account has a distinct password.
- Avoid Unsecured WiFi: Do not log into accounts using public or unsecured WiFi networks.
- Be Cautious with Debit Cards: Be thoughtful about using a debit card for purchases.
- Skeptical of Inbound Calls and Emails: Treat all inbound phone calls or emails as suspicious.
- Shred Documents: Destroy documents with personal information before discarding them.
- Limit Sharing Account Numbers & SSN: Use caution when sharing account numbers and your Social Security Number, especially if sharing over the phone or email.
It isn’t a question of if you will get hacked, but when you will get hacked. By following these steps, you can better protect your financial security and reduce the chance of identity theft.
Need Financial Advice at an Affordable Price?
Sensible offers simple, affordable financial advice tailored to your needs. Schedule a no-strings-attached call with us today to learn more.
This blog article is for informational and educational purposes only.
Sources:
