How to Remove Your Phone Number from the Dark Web
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By Farrukh Mushtaq
Farrukh Mushtaq
See author profileFarrukh Mushtaq, a digital marketer at PureSquare, possesses a keen interest in cybersecurity and enjoys writing about it. With several years of experience in the digital marketing industry, he brings expertise and passion to his work.
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20 February 2025
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10 mins read
Sorry to break the bad news, but there's no surefire way to remove it or even know your phone number is on the dark web.
However, this guide covers details on how to check whether or not your phone number is on the dark web and take action in case of a data breach.
What is the Dark Web?
For those who haven't heard about the Dark Web, it's a hidden part of the internet that requires you to use a unique Tor browser, and it's full of dark web marketplaces, illegally obtained items, passwords, bank statements, and even SSNs.
How to Find Out if Your Phone Number is On the Dark Web
Use PureVPN's Dark Web Monitoring feature to check if your personal information, like your phone number, IP address, email, or SSN, has been leaked on the dark web. You'll also get alerts if your data is exposed.
Discover if Your Most Critical Identifiers Have Been Exposed on the Dark Web
Receive timely alerts and actionable insights with PurePrivacy's Dark Web Monitoring.
Enable Dark Web Monitoring on PureVPN
- Make sure you have the latest version of the PureVPN app on your device.
- Sign in to your PureVPN account to access the feature.
- Go to the Dark Web Monitoring section from the main menu.
- Click on Add Assets to Monitor and enter details like your email, SSN, credit card number, passport number, and phone number.
- Enter the verification code sent to your registered phone number.
- If a breach is detected, follow the recommended security steps to protect your information.
- Once you’ve taken action, you can mark breaches as resolved.
Why is My Phone Number on the Dark Web?
- Counterfeit websites and apps can leak your phone numbers
- Malicious actors can steal data via fake emails and text messages
- Sharing phone numbers online can expose information to scammers
- Some apps collect your data without consent
- If your company experiences a data breach, data can be leaked
Top Signs Your Phone Number Is on the Dark Web
- A rise in robocalls or scam messages
- Notifications of unauthorized logins
- Unexpected loss of service or SIM card not working
- Unauthorized changes in email and banking accounts
- Receiving password reset messages
- Fake text messages from delivery services and banks
Steps to Take If Your Phone Number Is on the Dark Web
- Update passwords for email, social media, and banking accounts
- Use an authenticator app instead of text-based verification.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails and messages
- Download apps to reduce unwanted calls and communications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can someone hack my accounts if they have my phone number?
Not always, but they can swap SIMs or steal password reset codes. That's why using an authenticator app and 2FA (two-factor authentication) can be a safe option.
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How do I check if my phone number is on the dark web?
Use PureVPN's Dark Web Monitoring feature to see if your number or other personal details have been leaked. You will receive alert notifications if your data is found on the dark web.
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How can I stop my phone number from being leaked again?
Avoid sharing it online, use a second number for sign-ups, be careful with unknown messages and calls, and enable dark web monitoring to stay alert for future leaks.
Final Thoughts!
Your phone number ending up on the dark web is a reminder of how your personal information can be exposed. You should be wary of online threats because cybercriminals are always two steps ahead of you.
