When you find out your sensitive information has been accessed by an unauthorized individual, whether this is a scammer or through a data breach, it can be unsettling. Unfortunately, these instances are not uncommon, and the end goal of identity theft for those who perpetrate is financial gain. As such, your information may end up on the dark web for sale. The following blog explores these matters in further detail and the importance of working with an experienced San Diego County identity theft lawyer to help you reclaim your identity and repair your credit.
What Is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a phrase commonly used to describe a “hidden” internet that can only be accessed with special software. While you may be familiar with the Internet you access through common browsers like Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, or Safari, this represents a small fraction of all the websites that currently exist. The internet as you and the large majority of others likely use it is referred to as the “surface internet”
While it’s not illegal to access the dark web as it has legitimate uses like journalism or accessing news sources that may otherwise be blocked by the government, browsing the dark web can be dangerous. As such, you’ll find that user information is anonymous and encrypted, making it nearly impossible to track individuals who run or utilize these websites. Most commonly, however, the dark web is used by criminals for illegal matters like drugs, human trafficking, illegal pornography, and other illicit activities. One of the most common uses of the dark web is for hackers and thieves to trade and sell stolen identities.
How Does Identity Information Get to These Servers?
Once an identity thief has successfully stolen the sensitive information of a victim, whether, through scams or data breaches, they may use the individual’s identity for their own personal gain first, like running up credit cards or opening accounts in the name of the victim. Next, the thief will “package” information together. Essentially, this means matching credit card numbers and billing addresses or dates of birth with social security numbers. This increases the value of the identity for sale.
After being packaged, the thief will then access any number of dark web e-commerce sites to upload the stolen data. Generally, these platforms are anonymous, offer escrow services, and even a rating system like traditional online e-commerce sites.
Unfortunately, identity theft can have a considerable impact on your life, as your finances and credit score can suffer detrimental impacts once your information is on the dark web. As such, it is crucial to connect with an experienced attorney who can help you in the fight to reclaim your information. At Barthel Legal, we understand how devastating it can be to discover you are the victim of identity theft, which is why we will work tirelessly to fight for you during these matters. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.
