Protecting Your Social Security
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: November 3, 2023
At Social Security, protecting your personal information is more important than ever. We continue to evaluate and improve our robust cyber-security program to safeguard your information. The thing is, we can’t do it alone. You can help us secure your information by taking one of these steps:
- Open your personal my Social Security account. A my Social Security account is your gateway to many of our online services. Create your account today and take away the risk of someone else trying to create one in your name, even if they obtain your Social Security number.
- If you already have a my Social Security account, but haven’t signed in lately, take a moment to log in. We’ll send a one-time security code to your cell phone or to your email address each time you sign in with your username and password. The security code is part of our enhanced security feature to protect your personal information. Keep in mind that your cell phone provider’s text message and data rates may apply. If you suspect identity theft, report it to our Office of the Inspector General.
- If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, and you don’t want to do business with us online, you can contact us to block any automated telephone and electronic access to your Social Security record. No one, including you, will be able to see or change your personal information on the internet or through our automated telephone service. If you block access to your record and then change your mind in the future, you can contact us and ask us to unblock it after you prove your identity. This resource is available to certain victims of domestic violence or identity theft and those who need extra security.
We will continue to do our part to protect what’s important to you. And we’ll continue to advise you on how to protect yourself.
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Tags: fraud, my Social Security, my Social Security account, Office of the Inspector General, OIG, Social Security benefits
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Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications
Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications
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Thomas T.
I want to stop my social security check from direct deposit and began receiving it through the mail. What measures should I take
Rosemary M.
I just got a phone call saying that my social security number was compromised and I should call this number (916-226-4913). When I dialed the number, an Asian person answered. I hung up. I strongly suspect this is a scam. Do you notify someone by phone call if some scam is suspected?
Albert d.
I am confused by the credit entries that ssa displayed. As far as I know, I have no open accounts accept three credit card with Visa.
Michael S.
I have received a automated phone call saying they are freezing my social security number and bank accounts. Is this real?
Morris J.
Unsucessfylly trying to update my mailing address from the Philippines. What do I need to do?
mjwilliamson46@gmil.com
R.F.
Hi Morris, thank you for using our blog to communicate with us! At this time you must have a U. S. mailing address to create or to access your online account from outside the United States. The “my Social Security” authentication system requires address verification as one of the essential criteria for issuing an account. People with APO/FPO/DPO addresses can create an account overseas, but our system does not support registration and account creation for users with a foreign address yet.
When living abroad, please contact the nearest Federal Benefits Unit in your area for any assistance related to your Social Security benefits.
Also, our Office of International Operations (OIO) home page provides more information to assist our customers living abroad.
We hope this information helps!
Carlos R.
I am not able to submit an online appeal for benefits because of message.
JAMA
Even the I need something not answer plz
JAMA
Why close social security
Tim m.
I can’t get through barriers to my social security.
Desiree B.
I am looking to receive a new replacement card for SSA < my # is xxxxx2107, I am also inquire about my homeless status but with a legal mailing address in th eState of NY in the county of Orange an the City of Middletown. Last temporary address on file was 28 Fitzgerald Drive Middletown c/o Williams mailing only. I am now using a postal box @2242 Desiree Beniquez- Vidal , Middletown New York 10940.as of 6 28 18.