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. Linda M.

    I have received 2 voice mails that states a file on my SS number for fraudulent activities and please call them about legal proceeding. 204-439-5678

  2. Doreen

    I received a scam phone call saying that “the reason you have received this phone call from our department is that legal enforcement actions for criminal activities has been placed on your social security number”

    • L.A.

      Hi Doreen. 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.

  3. ashley g.

    can you put a pin on your social security numbers before anything happens

  4. Paul T.

    My wallet with my Social Security card was stolen in Paris, what should we do?

  5. Edna M.

    I think I compromise my social security number I got a phone call saying they are from the social security that I was doing fraudulent activity they ask for my last four number and I gave it to the along with my name what can I do the number was 1(405 )825-1932 from Chickasha OK so what can I do

  6. Jason T.

    someone in instagram is asking me my ssn

    • L.A.

      Hi, Jason. Thanks for your comment. You should be careful about sharing your number, even when you’re asked for it. For more information about safeguarding your Social Security number, check out our publication, Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number. We hope this helps.

  7. Angela

    I keep getting call from 800 712 34016
    cling he is with Social Security and that my SSI Number has been compromised and has multiple unusual activity.

    • A.C.

      Hi, Angela. Thanks for letting us know. 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.

  8. Situs T.

    I always change my ATM PIN regulary. Usually in every month. Cuz Too many people here have problems with thief.

    Situs Togel

  9. myra v.

    I accidently forgot a symbol at the end of my password for login on my account and I am now locked out for 24 hours. Will they let me login again after the 24 hour period as long as I enter the password correctly?

  10. Charlotte B.

    I think Obamacareplans.com may have inappropriately received my ss#. I want to freeze my SS account.

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