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
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Bruce L.
We may have had our identity stolen, someone hacked our computer and took $14 k out of our savings account and another $6k out of our line of credit, home equity loan. We have filed a police report and had our accounts blocked but they got everything from our computer. We do not know what we can do to stop these people from using our SS numbers to do more damage to us.
Bruce and Christina Lavender
757-570-7702
lavenderflex@yahoo.com
V.V.
Hi Bruce. Generally, identity theft issues are handled by the Federal Trade Commission. Visit http://www.identitytheft.gov to report identity theft and get a recovery plan or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions web page for details on what you can do if you think someone is using your Social Security number.
Teresa N.
My 17 and half year old daughter was scammed and now they have her driver’s license and social security card. How can she protect herself?
V.V.
Thanks for using our blog, Teresa. Generally, identity theft issues are handled by the Federal Trade Commission. Visit http://www.identitytheft.gov to report identity theft and get a recovery plan or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions web page for details on what you can do if you think someone is using your daughter’s Social Security number.
DIANE N.
I created a My social security online account a couple of years ago- haven’t really looked at it. Now, when I try to it wants an activation code. I have given up that and just tried to request a hard copy via mail but it wants me to sign in to my account which just circles me back to the activation code page. Help please
V.V.
Hi Diane, thanks for using our blog. An activation code is provided after visiting a Social Security field office with identification. A representative in the office verifies your identity and issues a letter containing an activation code. Our field offices are currently closed. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions web page for details on how to retrieve or change your username or password. We hope this helps!
Diana
I am a victim of identity theft. My detective told me I can flag my ss number so I can tell if someone is using my number to apply for any types of loans or credit. I do not see a way to do this on line. Can you please guide me thru this process. Thank you.
Kenneth R.
How do I freeze my social security number from others? I phoned 1-800-772-1213 on 5/13 & waited on line this morning. However my call was aborted. I was advised on 5/12 to remove/freeze my ss# from potential violaters.
Kenneth R.
What Steps Do I Take To Freeze My Social Security Number?
V.V.
Hi Kenneth, thanks for the question. You cannot freeze or cancel your Social Security number. People generally cannot voluntarily withdraw or stop participating in the Social Security program. You must pay Social Security taxes, regardless of you or your employer’s citizenship or place of residence. Unless specifically exempt by law, everyone working in the United States must pay Social Security taxes on earnings from covered employment. The law makes an exemption only in very limited circumstances for members of certain religious sects. We hope this helps.
Carol C.
Please tell me how to get an activation code so I can continue with my ssa replacement form.
V.V.
Hi Carol, thank you for using our blog. An activation code is provided after visiting a Social Security field office with identification. A representative in the office will verify your identity and issue you a letter containing an activation code. Our field offices are currently closed. To create a my Social Security account, click on Create New Account. We hope this helps.
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