What should you not do with your Social Security number?

Can someone ruin your life with your Social Security number?

Once someone has your Social Security number, they can essentially become you. They may be able to collect tax refunds, collect benefits and income, commit crimes, make purchases, set up phone numbers and websites, establish residences, and use health insurance—all in your name.

What can someone do with your Social Security number and date of birth?

With a person's name, social security number and date of birth, someone can get loans, access the person's existing bank accounts, open new bank accounts, lease or buy cars, get insurance, you name it.

What to do if someone has my Social Security number?

Contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at 1-800-908-4490 or visit them online, if you believe someone is using your SSN to work, get your tax refund, or other abuses involving taxes. Order free credit reports annually from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).

When should you not give your Social Security number?

If they won't budge and you're not comfortable giving them your personal information, then don't. "Every time another entity stores your Social, it's one more chance for identity theft," said Butler.

If Asked For Social Security Number, Keep These 3 Things In Mind

Should I give my SSN to anyone?

You should never provide your SSN to someone you don't know who calls you on the phone and requests it. This same warning applies to unsolicited emails and any forms you fill out on the internet. In general, don't give your SSN to anyone unless you are absolutely certain they have a reason and a right to have it.

Should I freeze my Social Security number?

Your Social Security number can be valuable information for identity thieves. Consider placing a security freeze or fraud alert on your credit reports if your Social Security card is lost.

Can someone steal your identity if you lose your Social Security card?

That being said, if your SS card has fallen into the wrong hands, you may be at risk of identity theft. Thieves can use your SSN to: Apply for credit in your name and then not pay the bills, which can damage your credit score1. Apply for jobs.

How do I know if my Social Security number has been compromised?

To see if someone's using your SSN, check your credit report. You can check it online through AnnualCreditReport.com, the only authorized website for free credit reports. Or you can call their phone number at 1-877-322-8228 to request your free copy.

What happens if a hacker gets your Social Security number?

With your SSN and other personal information easily found online, scammers can commit credit card fraud, open new accounts, and receive medical care in your name — as well as divert your Social Security benefits.

Can someone open a credit card in my name without my Social Security number?

An identity thief would have to obtain personal details such as your name, birthdate and Social Security number in order to open a credit card in your name. However, it is a federal crime to do this, and it can result in jail time when the thief is caught for their behavior.

How much is my Social Security number worth?

The company found that buyers are currently willing to pay just $1 for a Social Security number, which is the same amount they'll pay for user and password information to Brazzers, a pornographic website.

What is the most misused Social Security number?

078-05-1120. That's the most used – or misused – Social Security number in history, and it belonged to a woman from Lockport. The federal government originally issued that number to Hilda Schrader Whitcher in the 1930s. But over the next four decades more than 40,000 people mistakenly claimed it for themselves.

What can someone do with the last 4 digits of your SSN?

As long as a hacker or scammer has access to other personal information such as your name and address, they can use the last four digits of your SSN (in most cases) to open accounts in your name, steal your money and government benefits, or even get healthcare and tax refunds in your name.

How much does it cost to freeze your Social Security number?

There is NO COST to place or lift a security freeze. For more information, see detailed instructions entitled “Placing a Security Freeze on Your Credit Report to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft” below. 5. Review your credit reports carefully.

How to ruin someone credit with their Social Security number?

What can a stolen SSN do?

A dishonest person who has your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number and your good credit to apply for more credit in your name. Then, when they use the credit cards and don't pay the bills, it damages your credit.

What if someone takes a picture of your Social Security card?

Report the Crime to the Police

Under California law, you can report identity theft to your local police department. Ask the police to issue a police report of identity theft. Give the police as much information on the theft as possible.

Should I destroy my Social Security card?

Q. What documents should I shred? A. Start by shredding junk mail and old papers that carry your Social Security number (but don't destroy your Social Security card), birth date, signature, account numbers, passwords or PINs.

Should you keep your SSN private?

Through misuse of SSNs, individuals are subject to the danger of identity theft and its repercussions. Access to an individual's SSN can enable an identity thief to obtain information that can result in significant financial difficulties for the victim.

Where should you store your Social Security number?

Keep your social security card locked up in a safe at home. Don't carry it around with you in your wallet, as that's an easy way to have it, and your identity, stolen. See our picks for the best identity theft protection services.

Do you keep your Social Security number forever?

Does an SSN expire? No. Once an SSN has been assigned it is an individual's unique number for the rest of his or her life in the United States.

Is it normal to give SSN to dentist?

Generally, you're under no obligation to provide your SSN to healthcare providers (but they're not obligated to take you as a patient either). Health insurers will likely ask for it, and you do have to offer it up if you're entering a VA hospital.

Should you give your bank your SSN?

The answer is yes. To open an account with a U.S financial institution, you must provide your SSN. The banks use your SSN to evaluate your credit report and to send information about your interest and investment income/losses to the IRS.

What are three warning signs of identity theft?