Frauds & Scams

Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft

August 25, 2016 • By

Reading Time: 2 Minutes

Last Updated: November 3, 2023

indentity theftEvery year, millions of Americans become victims of identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personally identifiable information and pretends to be you. They can use this information to open bank or credit card accounts, file taxes, or make new purchases in your name.  

It is important that you take steps to protect your Social Security number from theft. If someone obtains your Social Security number, they can use it to get other personal information about you, including your bank or credit information. Someone can steal your Social Security number by:

  • Stealing your wallet, purse, or mail.
  • Obtaining personal information you provide to an unsecured site on the Internet.
  • Rummaging through your trash.
  • Posing by phone or email as someone who needs information about you.

If someone asks for your number, you should ask why, how it will be used, and what will happen if you refuse. Make sure you give your employer and your financial institution(s) your correct Social Security number, so your records and tax information are accurate.

To minimize the risk of identity theft, keep your Social Security card and any other documents that show your Social Security number in a safe place. Do not carry your Social Security card or other documents with you that display your number unless you need them.

If you suspect someone’s using your Social Security number for work purposes, report the problem to us immediately by contacting the Federal Trade Commission. We will review your earnings with you to ensure our records are accurate. You may also verify your earnings were posted correctly with your personal my Social Security account. If you don’t have a my Social Security account, you can create an account today!

If someone misused your Social Security number to create credit or other problems for you, immediately go report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission. Their website provides detailed information to help you defend against identity theft. You can reach them by phone by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338); TTY 1-866-653-4261.

You may also want to contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and file an online complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Safeguarding your identity and Social Security is of the utmost importance. If you think you’re a victim of identity theft, please act now. For more information, read our publication Identity Theft And Your Social Security Number or visit us online.

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About the Author

Doug Walker, Deputy Commissioner, Communications

Deputy Commissioner, Office of Communications

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Comments

  1. Kevin G.

    Good Afternoon,
    I have filed a fraud report requesting that My social security be reviewed due to a number of calls and emails that I have received from debtors stating that I owe money due to charges that were not mine. I visited the social security office in Laconia hoping to get assistance and was told that I had to file on line which I had already done. In addition I am unbale to obtain a student loan because is listed that I had taken one out in the 80’s when I have never taken a loan. I lost my wallet some time ago and now I am feeling that someone is using my identity. Is there anything that the social security administration can do to help me at this point.

    • R.F.

      We are sorry for these inconveniences, Kevin. If you think someone is using your number, there are several actions you can take. Go to our Frequently Asked Questions web page for more information on that topic. To report identity theft and get a recovery plan, visit IdentityTheft.gov. Thanks!

  2. James T.

    Someone has been applying online for loans and credit cards using my name, address and my wife’s cell phone number. They have also signed up with the USPS Informed Delivery program to track and possibly re-direct my mail. I am afraid that they may have my Social Security number.

    • R.F.

      Hello James, there are several actions you can take when you suspect someone is using your Social Security number. Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions web page for complete information. Thanks!

  3. Tony S.

    I was receiving benefits and went to prison in 2015 till 08/27/2018 I need to restart them . I was awarded them through a judge

  4. Tony S.

    Myla &Amadeus staska

  5. Sharon G.

    When will the IRS stop putting the full SS number on mail sent out, its very obvious the letter is from the IRS when its in big letters on the envelope

  6. Bridgette C.

    My social security card was stolen and I need to contact the 3 major credit bureaus. However, I do not know their names.
    If you know who these companies are, could you please send them to me; along with phone number.
    Thank you sincerely,
    Bridgette Carson

  7. Cassandra F.

    We think my 83 year old fathers social security card has been stolen, what do we need to do?

  8. Toni M.

    I just received a call from the number 1-773-373-9244 saying my ss number has been compromised. Is this an actual number from the social security office?

  9. Joanc

    I have had an abussive boyfridnd in the past who is in prison but will be getting out soon. He has 6 DUI’s. That is one problem. The other one is that I have had people purchased 5 I phones in my name. I did not find out until later bill of $6,000 came in the mail from AT&T. Although they cleared me of it because it was not me, I have had to change my checking account and my debit card. Under what circumstances can someone get a new social security card or is that not possible? Thank you, I appreciate your help
    Joan lynn meyers

  10. DCryder

    This information was hard to locate “from initial sign-in”

Comments are closed.