Exclusive Investigative Report: AARP Exposes the Dark Web

WASHINGTON, DC—Information stolen in computer breaches of well-known companies is flooding into an underground digital market called the Dark Web, where criminals buy and sell Social Security numbers, credit card information and computer passwords to be used for fraud, an investigation in the September issue of AARP Bulletin reveals. Using software originally developed by the U.S. Navy and available for free to anyone who wishes to download it, criminals buy and sell private data with complete anonymity, then use it to commit identity fraud. Approximately 6.6 percent of U.S. adults were victimized last year, the report shows, and allegedly, more than half of Americans’ Social Security numbers are for sale for as low as a few dollars each. The article also details how identity fraud typically occurs, and the many proven, powerful ways consumers can protect themselves.

Other stories in the September issue:

In the News

• When Loved Ones Steal: Recent reports of loved ones who have financially exploited their high-profile, older relatives highlights the fact that all families need to know how best to protect themselves. With advice that ranges from making a plan to designate power of attorney to setting up direct deposit for checks, this article details how to protect yourself and your family from financial exploitation from close friends and family.

• The Election and Drug Prices: With the average retail price of prescription drugs for chronic conditions reaching $13,000 annually, it’s a topic high on voters’ minds. AARP outlines several ways to address high drug prices, including proposals to give Medicare the power to negotiate prices, allow safe importation of less-expensive drugs, expand access to generics, eliminate pharmacy gag clauses, increase price transparency and continue state legislative momentum.  

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