How do I make sure no one has stolen my Social Security number?
To see if your Social Security number is being used by someone else for employment purposes, review your Social Security Statement at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount to look for suspicious activity. Finally, you’ll want to use additional scrutiny by regularly checking your bank and credit card accounts online.
What are some examples of identity theft?
Examples of Identity Theft
- Stolen Checks. If you have had checks stolen or bank accounts set up fraudulently, report it to the check verification companies.
- ATM Cards.
- Fraudulent Change of Address.
- Social Security Number Misuse.
- Passports.
- Phone Service.
- Driver License Number Misuse.
- False Civil and Criminal Judgements.
How do I secure my Social Security number?
Here are 10 things you can do to safeguard your SSN:
- Offer an Alternative Form of ID.
- Ask Why They Want It and How It Will Be Handled.
- Leave Your Card at Home.
- Shred Mail and Documents With Personal Details.
- Don’t Use Your SSN as a Password.
- Don’t Send Your SSN via an Electronic Device.
- Don’t Give It out to Strangers.
How can a person protect themselves against identity theft provide at least 3 examples you would use?
10 Ways To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft.
How can you protect yourself from information theft?
Ways to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft
- Password-Protect Your Devices.
- Use a Password Manager.
- Watch Out for Phishing Attempts.
- Never Give Out Personal Information Over the Phone.
- Regularly Check Your Credit Reports.
- Protect Your Personal Documents.
- Limit Your Exposure.
Can you sell your Social Security number back to the government?
You’re told over and over again to keep your Social Security number safe. Don’t give it out unnecessarily. When Congress passed the Privacy Act of 1974, it restricted the government’s use of SSNs but left the private sector free to use them at will. …
What happens when your identity is stolen?
Identity (ID) theft happens when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud. The identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status, and cost you time and money to restore your good name.
How can I get my Social Security number safe?
How to Protect Your SSN
- Offer an Alternative Form of ID.
- Ask Why They Want It and How It Will Be Handled.
- Leave Your Card at Home.
- Shred Mail and Documents With Personal Details.
- Don’t Use Your SSN as a Password.
- Don’t Send Your SSN via an Electronic Device.
- Don’t Give It out to Strangers.
What should I do if my Social Security number has been stolen?
If you know your Social Security number has been stolen, here are some additional steps to take: 1 File a police report or a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Report. This will help in case someone uses… 2 If you believe your identity has already been used, you can also contact the Social Security Fraud Hotline at (800)… More
What personal information has been hacked from the Equifax?
The hackers accessed people’s names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, addresses and, in some instances, driver’s license numbers. They also stole credit card numbers for about 209,000 people and dispute documents with personal identifying information for about 182,000 people.
Can My Social Security number be used to commit fraud?
If you think that your Social Security number may have been compromised, but have no indication that it’s been used to commit fraud, you may be better served by utilizing free credit monitoring or identity theft protection products, rather than taking more extreme measures.
What happens if someone uses your Social Security number illegally?
Someone illegally using your Social Security number and assuming your identity can cause a lot of problems. Your number is confidential The Social Security Administration protects your Social Security number and keeps your records confidential. We don’t give your number to anyone, except when authorized by law. You