Rising Data Breaches: How to Shield Your Social Security Number

In today’s digital age, protecting your personal information is more critical than ever. With increasing reports of data breaches involving Social Security numbers (SSNs), taking proactive measures can safeguard your identity and financial future. Here, we provide practical steps to help you protect yourself and your loved ones from identity theft and related issues.

Understanding the Risks of Identity Theft

Identity thieves can use your Social Security number and other personal details to:

• Apply for loans and credit cards.
• Open cellphone or utility accounts.
• File fraudulent tax returns to claim refunds.
• Commit other financial fraud in your name.

This kind of misuse can have long-term consequences, affecting your credit score and financial stability. Staying vigilant is the first step to prevention.

What to Do If Your Social Security Number Is Stolen

If you suspect your Social Security number has been stolen, act quickly. Here are the steps you should follow:

Report the Theft

1. Visit IdentityTheft.gov:
   • File a report and get a recovery plan through this one-stop resource managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
   • Or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).
2. File a Police Report:
   • Keep a copy for your records to address future problems.
3. Contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3):
   • File a report at ic3.gov. IC3 works with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to address cybercrimes.

Notify Credit Bureaus

1. Contact one of the three major credit bureaus to:
   • Add a fraud alert or credit freeze to your file.
   • Ensure the contacted bureau informs the others automatically.

Credit Bureau	Phone Number
Equifax	1-800-525-6285
Experian	1-888-397-3742
TransUnion	1-800-680-7289

2. Regularly check your credit report for unusual activity. Access free credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.

Notify the IRS

Prevent tax-related fraud by:

• Visiting Identity Theft Central.
• Calling the IRS at 1-800-908-4490.

Additional Steps to Protect Yourself

Use Your “my Social Security” Account

Create or log into your personal “my Social Security” account to monitor suspicious activity. Based on your status:

• If you haven’t applied for benefits:
  • Verify that no benefits have been paid in your name.
  • Review your Social Security Statement for accurate earnings and benefit estimates.
• If you already receive benefits:
  • Add blocks to your account for enhanced security.

Block Type	Purpose
eServices Block	Prevents online viewing or changes to personal information.
Direct Deposit Fraud Block	Blocks enrollment or updates to direct deposit and address details online or through financial institutions.

To modify or remove these blocks, contact the Social Security Administration directly.

Secure Your Information

1. Keep Your Social Security Card Safe:
   • Avoid carrying it in your wallet. Store it securely at home.
2. Update Passwords Regularly:
   • Use unique passwords for each account and change them often to prevent unauthorized access.
3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication:
   • Add an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step during login.
4. Be Wary of Scammers:
   • Ignore suspicious calls, texts, or emails claiming issues with your Social Security number.
   • Report scams at Protect Yourself From Scams.

Stay Informed

Find more tips on fraud prevention at Fraud Prevention and Reporting.

Sharing Is Caring

Share this information with friends and family to raise awareness about identity theft prevention. Social media platforms are a great way to spread the word.

People First India

FAQs