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. Joseph B.

    I have a few people out of state using .my birthday and social security card. Wath can.I do about. And is there away I could get played for if. For all my troubles

    • Ray F.

      Hi Joseph, see “What should I do if I think someone is using my Social Security number?” for information on this topic. Thanks!

  2. Ronald ".

    I believe I am the victim of ID THEFT FRAUD. I can no longer gain entry to my account online AND I have letters from Medicare that say, “NO MONEY IS TAKEN OUT FOR MEDICAL PREMIUMS, BUT,”. . . . My bank statements show each month that monies have been removed prior to me receiving the deposit into my bank account. I’ve been to the Social Security Office over 28 hours (5 days) without correction or help from a human individual (only auto-menus).

  3. Al

    My landlord is asking for a copy of my social security card.
    The landlord already has my credit report and approved my application.
    Is this request standard and should I give them a copy of my card?

  4. leo

    I am disabled with a reading disorder I was thinking of Vantage of fraud lost my property please need assistance an attorney to help I can’t afford an attorney I’m taking care of my child that has a disability

  5. Adam R.

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  6. Derek F.

    At the bank today. Had to give my SSN to the bank to put on my wife’s account.
    Informed my SSN has multiple users. More than one (me). Please respond.

  7. Lorea L.

    I can’t open a social security account because I live in Canada and the form will only take an American state address and zip code. Canada’s postal codes are six digits. I need help.

    • Ray F.

      We apologize for the inconvenience, Lorea. You are correct! You need a U.S. address to register for a my Social Security account, but you do not need a U.S. address to access our website or to file online for benefits.
      We recommend that individuals living outside the United States contact their nearest Federal Benefits Unit. Also, our Office of International Operations home page provides more information to assist our customers living abroad. In your case, you can also use the Canadian Service Area Directory to determine which Resident Office is near you. We hope this helps!

  8. KAREN T.

    I believe I dropped my Social Security card with my name on it out of my folder while applying for a document requiring multiple ID’s. Are there any precautions I should take?

  9. KAREN

    When visiting the DMV with ID necessary to renew my drivers license I think I lost my original Social Security card with my MAIDEN NAME on it. Are there any protective steps I should take?

  10. L. D.

    Who can legally ask for my SSN?
    Who am I required to give my number to?
    Do I have to give it to an association for a back ground check?

Comments are closed.