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Home » News » Here’s what could happen if someone has access to your social security number

Here’s what could happen if someone has access to your social security number

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  • Staff Report 

Learn how to protect your SSN and prevent identity theft.

Why Your Social Security Number (SSN) Is So Valuable

Your Social Security number (SSN) is one of the most critical pieces of personal information you own. It serves as a gateway to your financial, government, and personal records, making it a prime target for identity thieves.

If someone gains unauthorized access to your SSN, they can:

  • Open credit accounts in your name.
  • Apply for loans or government benefits.
  • Steal your tax refund.
  • Use your identity for employment fraud.
  • Commit medical identity theft to access healthcare services.

These breaches can result in financial loss, legal complications, and long-term credit damage.


How to Protect Your Social Security Number

Protecting your SSN requires consistent vigilance and proactive measures. Below are essential steps to secure your personal information:

1. Enable E-Verify Self Lock:

  • The E-Verify Self Lock feature, provided by the U.S. government, prevents unauthorized use of your SSN for employment verification purposes.
  • Access it via your E-Verify account or contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213.

2. Create a ‘my Social Security’ Account:

  • Set up an account on my Social Security to monitor your earnings and benefits history.
  • Regularly review your account to ensure reported income matches your actual earnings.
  • If your account is older than three years, update it via Login.gov or ID.me.

3. Monitor Your Credit Reports:

  • You are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
  • Access your reports through AnnualCreditReport.com.
  • Look for unauthorized accounts, unfamiliar activity, or errors and address them promptly.

4. Safeguard Your SSN Physically and Digitally:

  • Avoid carrying your Social Security card in your wallet.
  • Share your SSN only when absolutely necessary.
  • Be cautious of phishing emails, phone scams, or suspicious requests for your SSN.

What to Do If Your SSN Is Misused

If you notice signs of SSN misuse, such as:

  • Unexpected bills or credit accounts in your name.
  • Duplicate tax filings or unfamiliar tax documents.
  • Denials of government benefits due to duplicate claims.

Take these steps immediately:

  • Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the theft and create a tailored recovery plan.
  • Contact the IRS Identity Theft Central to report fraudulent tax filings.
  • Place a fraud alert or credit freeze on your accounts through the credit bureaus.

Stay Vigilant to Protect Your Identity

Your Social Security number is a valuable asset, and protecting it requires ongoing awareness and action. By using tools like E-Verify Self Lock, monitoring your Social Security account, and checking your credit reports regularly, you can significantly reduce the risk of identity theft.

For more assistance and resources, visit IdentityTheft.gov or contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) directly.

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