If you suspect somebody has your Social Security Number — whether they stole it from a company (like Equifax) or you gave it to them voluntarily — it’s important to set up credit monitoring . Typically your bank or the company that was breached will provide this to you for free.
What do I do if someone has my Social Security number?
If you know your Social Security number has been stolen, here are some additional steps to take: 1. File a police report or a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Report . This will help in case someone uses your Social Security number to commit fraud, since it will provide a legal record of the theft.
Is it bad if someone knows your Social Security number?
Your SSN is the key to your identity. And that’s why it’s so vulnerable: if a hacker gets ahold of it, they’re able to crack open the most secure of accounts and wreak havoc on your life. ... Unfortunately, not everyone knows when they’ve been a victim of Social Security number identity theft.
What can a scammer do with my Social Security number?
Thieves can then sell your identity or pretend to be you to open various accounts in your name, access medical care, file fraudulent tax returns or, at worst, commit crimes.
How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?
To see if your Social Security number is being used by someone else for employment purposes, review your Social Security Statement at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount to look for suspicious activity. Finally, you’ll want to use additional scrutiny by regularly checking your bank and credit card accounts online.
Can someone use my SSN with their name?
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. ... You should be careful about sharing your number, even when you’re asked for it.
Can someone access my bank account with my Social Security number?
In person, a bank may also accept a physical Social Security card, passport or Real ID in addition to your Social Security number . Someone might also try to use your Social Security number to open new financial accounts. They may have some success getting a credit card or loans under your name with your ssn.
Can my Social Security number be blocked?
Electronic and phone access to SSN information can be blocked by contacting the Social Security Administration directly . They will ask you to verify your identification and confirm your intention to block access to Social Security information. Blocking your number will prevent access by anyone, including you.
Can you change your SSN?
You can’t change your Social Security number simply because your card has been lost or stolen , or to avoid bankruptcy or legitimate debts. The only other reasons Social Security will consider assigning a new number are: Sequential numbers assigned to members of your family are causing confusion.
Can someone get a loan with my Social Security number?
Your Social Security number is the most important piece of personal information a bank needs when extending you credit or opening an account. With that number, a thief can get credit cards or loans , and when it comes time to repay them, they won’t, damaging your credit in the process.
What to do when your SSN is stolen?
Act fast if your Social Security card is stolen
If your wallet or purse containing your Social Security card is stolen, contact your local police department as soon as possible to file a theft report. Also, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request a replacement Social Security card.
What can someone do with your last 4 digits of SSN?
Scammers can use different ways and means to steal your identity by using the last 4 digits of SSN and DOB. With this information in their hands, they can steal your money, create credit card accounts , take away your hard-earned benefits, and use your name for illegal transactions.
Does Social Security call you about suspicious activity?
Our employees will never threaten you for information or promise a benefit in exchange for personal information or money. Social Security may call you in some situations, but will never: Threaten you.
Can someone have the same last 4 digits of SSN?
Only the last four digits of your Social Security number are truly random and unique . The first five numbers represent when and where your Social Security card was issued. Scammers can figure out the first five numbers by determining your birth date and hometown.
What bank is my Social Security number linked to?
Your SSN is tied to Social Security Administration which is tied directly to the Federal Reserve System , which is privately owned by stock-holding banks, one of which is Barclay’s, a Royal Britich Bank, as well as several American banks, which are also British owned and controlled.
How can I find out if someone is using my identity?
- Track what bills you owe and when they’re due. If you stop getting a bill, that could be a sign that someone changed your billing address.
- Review your bills. ...
- Check your bank account statement. ...
- Get and review your credit reports.
