Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: November 3, 2023
Every 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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Tags: my Social Security, my Social Security account, Social Security statement, SSN
See CommentsAbout the Author
Doug Walker, Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Deputy Commissioner, Office of Communications
Comments
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stan h.
I received a voice message – Executed by the US Hiring Authority stating my S.S. number going to be blocked intending your serious attention, ignoring this notice, I’ll need to appear before a magistrate judge or grand jury. call back -(833) 323-0363. Is this a scam?
A.C.
Thanks for checking in with us, Stan. We do not usually make random calls. If anyone receives calls saying that they are from Social Security, do not give out any personal information. Suspicious calls should be reported to the Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271 or online. You can also report these scams to the Federal Trade Commission through a new site specific to Social Security scams, here. We hope this helps.
Sanna L.
I would like to know why you returnrd to me the questionneire confirming my requirements that refers to October 2018
A.C.
Hi, Sanna. For your security, we do not have access to private information in this venue. We ask that members in our Blog community work with our offices with specific questions. You can call us at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., for assistance. Generally, you will have a shorter wait if you call later in the day. You can also contact your local Social Security office. We hope this helps.
Christi G.
I believe my social security number along with my mothers and my sons have been used by someone that stole my wallet and is a thief and yes I am willing to give their names to all and any authorities. If so we will press charges advised and prosecute any and all involved.
A.C.
We are sorry to hear about your situation, Christi. If you suspect identity theft, you should go to http://www.idtheft.gov and report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). We hope this helps!
JOSE L.
I would like to know if a passaport is a document to probe your age, or citizen certificate?
L.A.
Hi, Jose. Thanks for your question. We prefer a birth certificate for proof of age. If one exists, you must submit it. If a birth certificate does not exist, we may be able to accept a U.S. Passport. We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. For more information about what original documents are needed, visit here. We hope this helps.
James S.
O am receiving phone calls saying my ss# has been breached tried calling it is almost impossible to talk to a real person about this matter you can reach me at 6167888227 thank you
L.A.
Hi James. Thank you for letting us know about these calls. We do not usually make random calls. If you or anyone receives calls saying that they are from Social Security, do not give out any personal information. Suspicious calls should be reported to the Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271 or online. You can also report these scams to the Federal Trade Commission through a new site specific to Social Security scams here. We hope this helps
Jo
i was told that i may work someone elses social security without getting in trouble. is that correct? i don’t believe its true but they said as long as i notify you that i’m working someone elses social & have permission from that person, that its ok.
Tammy S.
I’d like to to lock my social security number. My name is Tammy Scarborough and I may have been a victim of identity theft. So I’d like to have my social security number locked for security reasons.
Thanks ,
Tammy Scarborough
Jim M.
Can I get a different Social Security number?
I been a victim of id theft person has my social security number & contacting my bank by impersonating me saying to give me checks & card & change of address I have reported to FTC &Experian about this also local Sheriff Police case number ,also harassing phone calls by this person with same telephone number. I have signed statements from my Bank Vice President & officer that took call from scammer I am jim mowatt Bastrop tx 78602 pobx 1868 jm
David M.
SOMEONE JUST TOOK MY INFORMATION WHAT SHOULD I DO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A.C.
Hi, David. We are sorry to hear about your situation. If you suspect identity theft, you should go to http://www.idtheft.gov and report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). We hope this helps!
Gabriella o.
How can I acquire a replacement social security card? I understand that a letter can be added to the number if you card was stolen as mine was?
A.C.
Hi, Gabriella. First, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing the Social Security number is what is important. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card please visit our Social Security Number and Card page. Keep in mind all submitted documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency and must (unless otherwise indicated) have been issued within the last two years. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. Once you’ve submitted all the needed documents, it can take up to 10 business days from the date we received the application to mail a replacement card. Also, if you suspect identity theft, you should go to http://www.idtheft.gov and report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). We hope this helps!