To avoid having your identity stolen, it is important that you actively protect your social security number. Here are seven tips to help you safeguard it.
1. Don't Carry Your Social Security Card with You
Many people carry their social security cards with them in their wallet or purse because they never know when they might need it while they're out and about. This isn't a great idea, however, because if your wallet or purse is misplaced or stolen, someone will then have access to your social security number to do with as they wish. Only take it with you when you know you'll need it, which shouldn't be very often for most people. Have the number memorized in case you do need to share it in cases where the card itself isn't necessary.
2. Minimize Sharing Your Social Security Number
Be sure to only share your SSN when it is absolutely necessary. Some organizations may request it even when it's not really essential for them to have it. When one asks for it, simply ask them if it's really necessary or if there is an alternative that will work. Ask them why it's needed and how it will be stored. Some may be able to move on without the number. If it is absolutely required, their answers to your questions may at least give you some peace of mind. Don't share if there's not a valid reason. Also, be hesitant with online forms that ask for it. Make sure any website you use is secured (it should have "https" in the URL).
3. Block Electronic Access
"You may not be aware of it, but you can lock your Social Security number to prevent unauthorized access if your SSN has been compromised," explains Experian.* "To block electronic access to your SSN, call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213. Once you've made your request, any automated telephone and electronic access to your Social Security file is blocked. When the file is blocked, neither you nor anyone else will be able to see or change personal information online or through the automated telephone service via the Social Security Administration. Once you decide to unblock your file, you can contact the Social Security Administration to request that the block be removed. During that call, you'll need to prove your identity."
4. Dispose of Documents More Securely
Buy a paper shredder. Use it to shred any documents that contain your SSN before disposing of them. There are actually criminals who go through trash, looking for personal information like this so they can commit identity theft. Don't make it easy for them. Cross-cut shredders are ideal as they make it even harder for them to piece numbers together. Use paperless billing and statements whenever possible to reduce the number of documents that need to be shredded.
5. Beware of Fraudsters
Beware of fraudsters (especially online) who might be trying to obtain your information, including your social security number.
"Watch out for phishing, smishing and spoofing," says Equifax.** "If you receive unsolicited communication, be sure to confirm that the related email addresses, websites and phone numbers are legitimate before providing any information or clicking a link. Messages from phishers may include notifications about problems with an account, warnings about suspicious activity or claims that you’re eligible for a government refund. Read these messages carefully — they will likely be vague and may include grammatical or spelling errors. Be especially skeptical of anyone claiming to represent a government agency such as the IRS."
6. Register With the Social Security Administration
Use the Social Security Administration's website to register. Doing so will prevent others from being able to register in your name, which is a form of identity theft, and can lead to someone else getting your benefits. Set a security code via the site for added protection. In addition to helping you protect your SSN, the site can help you estimate, plan, and manage your benefits.
7. Monitor Your Personal Info
Use the resources available to monitor your personal information. Regularly check your credit report, which can show if someone has used your SSN to open any accounts in your name. You can get at least one free credit report each year from one of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion). Sign up for fraud alerts or credit monitoring services for additional protection.
If your SSN has already been obtained by someone else and they are using it for nefarious purposes, you can report it to the Social Security Administration and/or the Federal Trade Commission. They will walk you through the process of dealing with identity theft.
* https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-to-keep-social-security-number-safe/