How can I protect my Social Security card?

How can I protect my Social Security card?

Here are 10 things you can do to safeguard your SSN:

1. Offer an Alternative Form of ID.
2. Ask Why They Want It and How It Will Be Handled.
3. Leave Your Card at Home.
4. Shred Mail and Documents With Personal Details.
5. Don’t Use Your SSN as a Password.
6. Don’t Send Your SSN via an Electronic Device.
7. Don’t Give It out to Strangers.

Where is the safest place to keep your Social Security card?

The absolute best way to store your Social Security Card is to put it in a waterproof plastic container and to put it inside of your safe, filing cabinet, or other storage area. If you can do this, then you will most likely be able to keep your Social Security card protected for many years.

Should I protect my SSN?

There may be times when you need to show your card to someone. But, in general, it’s a good idea to avoid carrying your card or any documents that display your SSN. It’s possible you might lose your wallet or leave your documents behind. Not all thieves will want your Social Security number, but many will.

Is there a way to lock your Social Security number?

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). With Self Lock, you are always in control – you can unlock your SSN any time a new employer needs to verify your employment authorization in E-Verify.

What can someone do with my SSN card?

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, when they use the credit cards and don’t pay the bills, it damages your credit.

What do you do if someone hacks your Social Security number?

Report the theft of the Social Security number to the IRS at http://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-central. You can also call 1-800-908-4490. That will prevent tax-fraud thieves from filing tax returns in your name — and collecting your tax refund.

Is it okay to laminate your Social Security card?

According to the Social Security Administration, or SSA, you should not laminate your Social Security card. The Administration states this on its website, but you can also find a similar statement on the back of your Social Security card.

Should I carry my Social Security card in my wallet?

Don’t Carry Your Social Security Card in Your Wallet Once stolen, rogue identity thieves could use that number to get loans in your name or obtain credit cards. For that reason, identity theft experts say, never carry your Social Security card — or even a piece of paper with your Social Security number on it.

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.

What happens if hackers get your Social Security number?

Your info could be used to open credit cards or take out loans. If hackers have your Social Security number, name, birthdate and address, they can open credit cards or apply for loans in your name.

What if I gave my SSN to a scammer?

If you provided a scammer with your Social Security Number directly, or you already think your number was used fraudulently, you will need to act more urgently. You can place a credit freeze on your account with the three credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Transunion and Experian.

Can I tape my Social Security card?

Do not laminate your card. Lamination prevents detection of many security features. However, you may cover the card with plastic or other removable material if it does not damage the card.

How do you protect your Social Security number?

Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft. 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.

How do you lock your Social Security number?

To lock your Social Security number, visit the U.S. government’s myE-Verify website and complete the necessary steps online. “You’ll need to enter your personal data, take a quiz, enter document data, and then get your results,” says Katie Gampietro Burke, CFP and founder of Wealth by Empowerment.

What are the first 3 numbers on a Social Security card?

A Social Security Number ( SSN ) consists of nine digits, commonly written as three fields separated by hyphens: AAA-GG-SSSS. The first three-digit field is called the “area number”.

What is Social Security number?

The customer service number of Social Security Administration is 800-772-1213