Protect Your SSN

Guard the Key to Your Identity: Protecting Your SSN

Your social security number (SSN) is the key to your financial and personal identity. Think about what's tied to your SSN: your school records; your taxes and work history; your bank accounts, credit cards, loans and mortgage; your retirement savings, Medicare and Medicaid eligibility; your passport; and often your medical records.  It's no wonder that Social Security Numbers are an identity thief's dream. With stolen SSNs, thieves can steal your money and a whole lot more. They can take out loans, rent property, and even commit crimes in your name.  They can damage your credit and your reputation.


You need to guard your SSN as carefully as you would guard your life because, as far as your identity is concerned, it is the key to your life. Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can take to help keep your secret eight digits safe from bad guys.


·       Keep your Social Security card in a safe deposit box at the bank or at home. Never carry it with you unless it is required to complete employment or government paperwork, and then put it back under lock and key immediately.


·       Shred documents that contain your SSN before disposing of them, and get a locked mailbox so no one can steal those documents before you pick up your mail.


·       Erase any text or email exchange that includes your SSN. You can't erase it from the receiver's phone or computer, but by removing it from your own, there's one less access point to your personal data. (And never provide your SNN in response to an unsolicited email. Legitimate organizations won't ask for personal information by email, so this type of request is almost certainly a scam.)


·       Be careful and stingy about giving out your SSN. Don't give it out in public. Unfortunately, forms and staff at many doctors offices, banks, schools, and government agencies routinely ask for SSNs even when it is not necessary to provide this information. If your medical provider or school is still using SSNs as ID numbers, tell them they need to become security conscious and stop that practice. Don't enter your SSN on the web unless you're sure the web site is legitimate and secure.


·       If you do have to provide your SSN in a public place, check who may be watching or listening. Eavesdropping and "shoulder surfing" are real risks.

By: myIDcare