How do I secure a Social Security number?

To obtain an SSN for the first time, you'll need to submit an application and show us original documents (or copies certified by the issuing agencies). You can begin your application online, but you will need to visit a local Social Security office or card center to complete the application process.

Is there a way to secure your Social Security number?

You can lock your SSN by calling the Social Security Administration or by creating an E-Verify account. Also, you can contact all three of the nationwide CRAs to place a freeze on your credit reports.

How do I check if someone is using my Social Security number?

Contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at 1-800-908-4490 or visit them online, if you believe someone is using your SSN to work, get your tax refund, or other abuses involving taxes.

How much does it cost to freeze your Social Security number?

There is NO COST to place or lift a security freeze. For more information, see detailed instructions entitled “Placing a Security Freeze on Your Credit Report to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft” below.

How do I flag my Social Security number to the IRS?

If you believe someone may have used your SSN fraudulently, please notify IRS immediately by responding to the name and number printed on the notice or letter. You will need to fill out the IRS Identity Theft Affidavit, Form 14039.

How To Protect Your Social Security Number | Protect Your SSN - Latest Video

How do I stop someone from filing my taxes in my name?

Can you check someone SSN online?

One way to check an employee's SSN is to register with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and sign up for SSNVS, a free online service. SSNVS allows users to verify one to 10 names and SSNs at a time. If you choose this option, you will receive the results immediately.

What can you do with someone's SSN?

Once someone has your Social Security number, they can essentially become you. They may be able to collect tax refunds, collect benefits and income, commit crimes, make purchases, set up phone numbers and websites, establish residences, and use health insurance—all in your name.

How can I find out if someone opened an account in my name?

The best way to find out if someone has opened an account in your name is to pull your own credit reports to check. Note that you'll need to pull your credit reports from all three bureaus — Experian, Equifax and TransUnion — to check for fraud since each report may have different information and reporting.

How do I make sure no one has stolen my Social Security number?

You may reach the FTC's identity theft hotline toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft. Additional Resources: Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft.

Does LifeLock protect your Social Security number?

LifeLock's Standard, Advantage, and Ultimate Plus ID theft protection plans offer a wide variety of ways to guard against identity theft, including Social Security number alerts, data breach notifications, stolen funds reimbursement, credit monitoring in case someone steals your credit card or open a credit file in ...

What are three warning signs of identity theft?

Can someone open a credit card in my name without my Social Security number?

An identity thief would have to obtain personal details such as your name, birthdate and Social Security number in order to open a credit card in your name. However, it is a federal crime to do this, and it can result in jail time when the thief is caught for their behavior.

Can someone open a bank account in my name without my knowledge?

Because there is no consumer victim to report a stolen identity, accounts opened by synthetic identities often go undetected.

Can someone access your bank account with your name and account number?

If a scammer had your account number and other info — perhaps your driver's license number and/or your home address — they might be able to make illegal purchases online. So don't relax and think you shouldn't be guarded with your bank account number.

Can you get a loan using someone else's Social Security number?

With a person's name, social security number and date of birth, someone can get loans, access the person's existing bank accounts, open new bank accounts, lease or buy cars, get insurance, you name it.

Can someone use someone else's SSN?

Using someone else's SSN is a federal crime and could result in up to 15 years in jail. It could prevent you from obtaining legal status or cause you to be deported.

Can someone file your taxes without your knowledge?

Tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen personal information, including your Social Security number, to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund. If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, continue to pay your taxes and file your tax return, even if you must file a paper return.

Can you stop someone from claiming you on their taxes?

No one, not even the IRS or your state can prevent anyone from entering someone as a dependent on their tax return. Just e-file your tax return with the dependent entered.

What to do if your identity is stolen?

How do criminals get a new identity?

To commit SIF, fraudsters begin by stealing legitimate Social Security numbers from people who aren't using their credit – usually a child, a homeless person, or the recently deceased. To build a “synthetic” identity – or thousands of them – fraudsters add fake addresses, phone numbers, and even social media accounts.

What are 2 warning signs you have had your identity stolen?

What are the first two things you need to do if your identity is stolen?

Explain that someone stole your identity and ask them to close or freeze the compromised account. Contact any of the three credit reporting agencies and ask that a free fraud alert be placed on your credit report. Also ask for a free credit report.

What is the most common identity theft?

Financial identity theft.

This is the most common form of identity theft — when someone uses another person's information for financial gain.

Has LifeLock ever been hacked?

The investigation confirmed that LifeLock customers were being targeted in a credential stuffing attack, which commenced on or around December 1, 2022. NortonLifeLock confirmed that its systems remain secure and have not been hacked, but customer accounts had been subjected to unauthorized access.