The Growing Risk of Social Security Number Exposure
In recent months, multiple high-profile data breaches have potentially exposed millions of Social Security numbers (SSNs), putting individuals at risk of identity theft and financial fraud. The most recent incidents include a massive hack targeting National Public Data in August 2024, which reportedly compromised nearly 3 billion SSNs, and a breach at retailer David’s Bridal. These events highlight the critical need to protect this sensitive information.
Understanding the Risks
Your Social Security number is a vital piece of personal information used for employment verification, tax filing, and accessing government benefits. When it falls into the wrong hands, fraudsters can use it to drain bank accounts, damage credit scores, or commit other forms of identity theft. The consequences can be financially devastating and take years to resolve.
Proactive Steps to Protect Your SSN
While you can’t completely eliminate the risk of your SSN being compromised, taking proactive measures can significantly reduce your exposure to potential fraud.
1. Restrict Electronic Access to Your SSN
The Social Security Administration allows you to block electronic access to your SSN, preventing anyone – including yourself – from obtaining or modifying your information online or through automated phone services. To initiate this block, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. Keep in mind that you’ll need to verify your identity to remove the block later if needed.
2. Lock Your SSN with E-Verify
E-Verify is a system used by many employers to confirm employment eligibility. By creating a myE-Verify account, you can place a “Self Lock” on your SSN, preventing others from using it for fraudulent employment purposes. Remember to unlock it before starting a new job, as this lock will also prevent legitimate employers from verifying your work eligibility.
3. Freeze Your Credit Reports
While you can’t freeze your SSN directly, you can freeze your credit reports with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This security freeze prevents lenders from accessing your credit file, making it difficult for scammers to open new credit accounts in your name. You can also freeze your child’s credit to protect them from identity theft.
Additional Protective Measures
- Monitor Your Credit Regularly: Check your credit reports for signs of fraud, such as unrecognized accounts or addresses, through AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Create a my Social Security Account: Manage your contact information and prevent others from creating an account in your name.
- Safeguard Your Social Security Card: Store it securely and avoid carrying it unless necessary.
- Be Cautious with SSN Disclosure: Only share your SSN when absolutely necessary, and verify the requester’s identity and purpose.
- Consider Identity Theft Protection Services: These services can provide additional monitoring and protection if you’re concerned about managing these steps yourself.
Responding to SSN Compromise
If you believe your SSN has been compromised, act quickly:
- Freeze Your Credit Reports: If you haven’t already done so.
- Report Identity Theft: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov.
- Obtain an Identity Protection PIN: Get an IP PIN from the IRS to secure your tax filings.
- Replace Your Social Security Card: If it’s lost or stolen, request a replacement online or at your local SSA office.
By taking these proactive steps and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk associated with Social Security number exposure in today’s digital landscape.
