Upon birth, the government assigns every US citizen a Social Security Number (SSN). This unique tax identifier allows the government to identify you and track your income. It also serves as a core piece of personal ID, proving you really are who you say you are, making it extremely enticing to scammers and fraudsters. If your SSN falls into the wrong hands, criminals might use it to steal your identity and open accounts under your name. Here’s how to stay safe.
Memorize Your SSN
If possible, memorize your SSN so that you don’t need to carry your card around on your person. The reality is that you shouldn’t need it very often, anyway. It’s often safer to leave your card in a secure place at home.
Verify Requests First
Not everyone who asks for your social security number needs it. There are no laws stating a business can’t ask you for it, and nothing stops them from refusing you service if you say no. But as PrivacyRights.org points out, you are only legally required to hand it over to employers, the IRS, financial institutions, and certain medical facilities per the law. You have the right to say no.
Create a “My Social Security” Account
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides an online platform for managing your tax identifier and any owed benefits. Sign up to this government website to keep track of it and keep a watchful eye over its use.
Shred Sensitive Paperwork
Do you have documents lying around that contain your SSN? If you no longer need them, don’t throw them out or even recycle them — at least not when they’re whole. Criminals can and often do fish through garbage to steal this kind of data. Shred old documents to foil them before they have a chance.
Avoid Sending Data Online
There are certain scenarios where you need to hand over your SSN in the online sphere to access services — SSA.gov is one example. However, you should avoid sending your ID over the internet whenever possible. Hacks and intrusion attempts are becoming more common, and cybercriminals may stealthily steal your information while it’s in transit.
What to Do If You Suspect a Problem
If you suspect someone has stolen your SSN, you should take action to protect your identity right away. File a claim with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center right away. They can open an investigation and contact the appropriate authorities on your behalf. It may also be wise to contact the three major credit bureaus and ask them to place a freeze on your credit.
