Executives' Social Security Numbers Sold for 25 Cents on Dark Web

Corporate executives' Social Security numbers (SSNs) are being sold on dark web marketplaces for as little as $0.25 each, according to recent threat intelligence from Rapid7. This alarming trend poses significant risks for identity theft, executive impersonation, and business email compromise (BEC). Unlike credit card information, SSNs cannot be easily canceled, making them a lasting liability for victims. The low price point allows fraudsters easy access to sensitive identity data, potentially leading to widespread exploitation. The growing 'identity-as-a-service' ecosystem on the dark web is facilitating this trade, raising concerns among cybersecurity professionals. Organizations must be vigilant to protect their executives from these threats.

Key Points: • Corporate executives' SSNs are sold for as low as $0.25 on dark web marketplaces. • The compromised SSNs pose a permanent liability for victims, unlike easily canceled credit cards. • Rapid7's research highlights a growing 'identity-as-a-service' ecosystem among cybercriminals.