No one can use your Social Security number when it’s locked. No one can apply for a job in your name using your number and potentially run up a tax bill for money you never earned. No one can apply for credit or open new accounts in your name that require a Social Security number.
How do I make sure no one has stolen my Social Security number?
If you know your Social Security number has been stolen, here are some additional steps to take:
- File a police report or a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Report.
- If you believe your identity has already been used, you can also contact the Social Security Fraud Hotline at (800) 269-0271.
What can someone do with my SSN and DOB?
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, they use the credit cards and don’t pay the bills, it damages your credit.
Can someone steal my identity with just my Social Security number?
Does Social Security call you if your number has been compromised?
It’s also important to know that the SSA will never call you about a problem with your Social Security number or email or text photos purporting to be official identification, said Social Security Inspector General Gail Ennis.
What happens if someone has your SSN?
How would I know if my Social Security number has been compromised?
Log on to your mySSN account to check your earnings record. This will let you know if someone has been fraudulently using your SSN to get a job or take out a loan. If something looks fishy, go through the steps at the Federal Trade Commission’s Identity Theft page. Call the FTC at 1-877-438-4338 or submit online.
How would I know 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 to look for suspicious activity. Finally, you’ll want to use additional scrutiny by regularly checking your bank and credit card accounts online.
Self Lock is the unique feature that lets you protect your identity in E-Verify and Self Check by placing a “lock” on your Social Security number (SSN). This helps prevent anyone else from using your SSN to try to get a job with an E-Verify employer.
How do I make sure my Social Security number is safe?
Other ways to protect your information include not routinely carrying your card or other documents that display your number with you. Also, be careful about sharing your number, even when you’re asked for it. You should ask why your number is needed, how it’ll be used, and what will happen if you refuse.
What do I do if my Social Security number has been compromised?
How do you know if your Social Security number has been compromised?
How can I tell if my Social Security number has been compromised?
at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or go to: To order a copy of your Social Security Administration earnings and benefits statement, or to check whether someone has used your Social Security number to get a job or to avoid paying taxes, visit
How do I stop someone from using my Social Security number?
It’s a one-stop resource managed by the Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency. If you believe someone is using your Social Security number to work, get your tax refund, or other abuses involving taxes, contact the IRS online or call 1-800-908-4490.
How to protect your Social Security number from identity theft?
Make sure you give your employer and your financial institution (s) your correct Social Security number, so your records and tax information are accurate. To minimize the risk of identity theft, keep your Social Security card and any other documents that show your Social Security number in a safe place.
What happens when someone steals your Social Security number?
Every year, millions of Americans become victims of identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personally identifiable information and pretends to be you. They can use this information to open bank or credit card accounts, file taxes, or make new purchases in your name.
How to reduce the risk of identity theft?
To minimize the risk of identity theft, keep your Social Security card and any other documents that show your Social Security number in a safe place. Do not carry your Social Security card or other documents with you that display your number unless you need them.
What to do if someone misuses your Social Security number?
If someone misused your Social Security number to create credit or other problems for you, immediately go report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission. Their website provides detailed information to help you defend against identity theft. You can reach them by phone by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT ( 1-877-438-4338 ); TTY 1-866-653-4261.
