In the realm of cybercrime, few items are as highly sought after as stolen Social Security Numbers (SSNs). Often referred to in criminal circles as SSN dumps, these data packages are bought and sold on dark web marketplaces like the now-defunct feshop, where stolen identities became digital currency for fraud, scams, and financial exploitation.
But what exactly are SSN dumps, and why are they so valuable to criminals on platforms like Feshop? Let’s dive into what they are, how they’re used, and the massive risks they pose—not just to the victims, but to the buyers and sellers involved in these illicit trades.
🔍 What Are SSN Dumps?
SSN dumps refer to large batches of stolen Social Security Numbers, often packaged with additional personal information. These dumps can include:
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Full names
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Dates of birth
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Physical addresses
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Phone numbers
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Driver’s license numbers
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Sometimes even bank account details or credit card info
When this full identity package is offered, it’s commonly called a “fullz” in underground marketplaces. These full profiles allow cybercriminals to impersonate someone with startling accuracy—enough to open credit lines, take out loans, or access government benefits.
🕵️ How Are SSNs Stolen?
SSNs are often stolen through:
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Data breaches (e.g., hospitals, schools, government databases)
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Phishing attacks
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Malware or keyloggers on infected devices
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Social engineering
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Insider leaks from organizations with access to sensitive personal data
Once obtained, these SSNs are sold in bulk on dark web marketplaces—usually priced by the quality, freshness, or geographical relevance of the data.
🛒 Why Were Platforms Like Feshop Popular for Selling SSN Dumps?
Feshop was one of the most prominent dark web marketplaces dedicated to selling stolen personal data, including SSNs, credit card information, and full identity profiles. It gained a reputation for being “user-friendly” (by criminal standards) and relatively organized compared to other dark net markets.
Here’s why platforms like Feshop were especially attractive for SSN dump trade:
1. Anonymity
Feshop allowed users to browse and buy using cryptocurrency like Bitcoin or Monero, helping to obscure the identity of both buyers and sellers.
2. Searchable Databases
Feshop let users filter dumps by region, zip code, state, or other criteria. Criminals looking to commit localized fraud could easily target victims in their own city or state.
3. “Verified” Listings
Much like eBay or Amazon, sellers on Feshop could earn ratings and reviews, leading buyers to believe they were purchasing quality, “fresh” data.
4. Bulk Deals
SSN dumps were sold in packs—sometimes thousands at a time—allowing scammers to cast a wide net with stolen identities.
💰 Why Are SSNs So Valuable?
A Social Security Number is the gateway to someone’s identity. With it, a criminal can:
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Open new credit cards
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Apply for loans
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File fraudulent tax returns to get refunds
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Apply for unemployment or government benefits
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Commit medical identity theft
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Rent apartments, sign up for utilities, or even get jobs under false pretenses
While credit card data might expire or be canceled quickly, SSNs don’t change. That permanence makes them far more valuable in the long term.
On platforms like Feshop, an individual “fullz” containing a valid SSN could sell for $40–$120, depending on the quality. In bulk, the price could drop, making it cheap for scammers to conduct mass fraud schemes.
⚠️ The Dangers of Buying or Using SSN Dumps
Using SSNs purchased from marketplaces like Feshop isn’t just illegal—it’s dangerous.
1. Federal Crimes
In the U.S., using someone else’s SSN for fraud violates multiple federal laws, including:
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Identity Theft (18 U.S. Code § 1028)
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Wire Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1343)
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Conspiracy to Commit Fraud
Convictions can result in 5–30 years in prison, along with severe fines and asset forfeiture.
2. Digital Footprints
Even on the dark web, buyers leave traces. Law enforcement agencies—including the FBI and Secret Service—have infiltrated platforms like Feshop, collecting evidence on both sellers and buyers.
3. Scams and Malware
Ironically, many buyers of SSN dumps are scammed themselves. They may pay for fake or outdated data, or end up downloading malware that steals their information.
👮♂️ Feshop Takedown & Ongoing Investigations
In 2021, Feshop was taken offline in a coordinated global law enforcement operation. Authorities seized servers, froze wallets, and identified many users. Despite operating under the assumption of anonymity, dozens of people were arrested in connection to their activity on the site.
The takedown served as a warning: no one is truly anonymous, even on the dark web.
🧠 Final Thoughts
SSN dumps are the building blocks of modern identity theft, and platforms like Feshop were once thriving hubs for this underground economy. While the site is no longer active, the demand for stolen identities hasn’t gone away—and the risks have only grown.
Whether you’re researching cybercrime or trying to protect yourself, understanding how SSNs are used and why they’re traded on sites like Feshop is the first step toward better digital awareness—and safer online behavior.
