What does the last 4 digits of SSN mean?

The last four digits of the SSN are the serial number. The serial number represents a straight numerical series of numbers from 0001–9999 within each group. Serial number 0000 is not assigned.

What can someone do with the last 4 digits of your Social Security number?

As long as a hacker or scammer has access to other personal information such as your name and address, they can use the last four digits of your SSN (in most cases) to open accounts in your name, steal your money and government benefits, or even get healthcare and tax refunds in your name.

Is it OK to give out last 4 digits of SSN?

When asked by others, just say no. The more your number is out there, the greater the risk of identity theft. Guard the Final Four. Although most widely used and shared, the last four digits are in fact the most important to protect.

Does your SSN tell where you were born?

SSNs have never been assigned directly to note a person's birthplace; before 1972, the number reflected the location of the office issuing the number, and since 1972, numbers have been assigned by the address written on the application.

What does my SSN say about me?

Many businesses ask for your SSN because it is a convenient way to identify you in their system. As a result, your social security number can now reveal all kinds of information about you, including places you've lived, your credit history, and maybe even medical conditions.

Show only last 4 digits of Social Security Number (SSN) in Excel

What do the 2 middle numbers in Social Security mean?

The group numbers are the two middle numbers of a social security number. These numbers do not represent the geographical region, but they do represent the order in which a number was issued for a particular region.

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

Can someone access my bank account with my Social Security number?

They can use your SSN to open a bank account in your name.

That means that anyone with your SSN can easily open a bank account in your name, especially if the identity thief already obtained a driver's license in your name.

Can I change my 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.

What can a scammer do with my SSN?

Once hackers or thieves have your SSN, they can make false statements on claims, file claims under your SSN, file fraudulent tax returns for refunds, open bank accounts and credit cards and more. A SSN, especially one with a good credit score attached, can be used to extract serious money quickly via these scams.

What if my scammer has 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.

How can I find out if someone is using my identity?

Can two people have the same Social Security number?

"Social Security numbers can be associated with multiple individuals, and that individuals can have multiple SSNs associated with them.

Does your Social Security number expire?

Does an SSN expire? No. Once an SSN has been assigned it is an individual's unique number for the rest of his or her life in the United States. However, the individual's work authorization may expire.

Why do I have two Social Security numbers?

Many of the duplicate numbers were the result of data entry errors as opposed to deliberate falsification, but the fact that these multiple numbers exist shows that it may be difficult for an organization to rely solely on the SSN to verify an individual's identity.

How much is my Social Security number worth?

The company found that buyers are currently willing to pay just $1 for a Social Security number, which is the same amount they'll pay for user and password information to Brazzers, a pornographic website.

How do you check if your Social Security number has been compromised?

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. You can order free credit reports annually from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion).

Can you use someone's SSN to get money?

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 do I stop someone opening a bank account in my name?

Consider a credit freeze or extended fraud alert

As an alternative, you can also set up a credit freeze with each of the credit bureaus, which will prevent anyone from opening new accounts in your name until you personally take steps to “unfreeze” your reports.

How do hackers get your Social Security number?

It's surprisingly easy for hackers and criminals to get your Social Security number. This usually happens either by physically getting the information or through a security breach of some kind online.

What are the red numbers on the back of a Social Security card?

7. Sequential Control Number. On the rear of a legitimate card there is a sequential control number. The control number is a combination of alpha and numeric that bears no relation to the actual social security number on the card.

How are the first 3 digits of your Social Security number determined?

The first three (3) digits of a person's social security number are determined by the ZIP Code of the mailing address shown on the application for a social security number. Prior to 1973, social security numbers were assigned by our field offices.

Is SSA and SSN the same?

Although the SSN card is not considered an identity document (because it does not display identifying information about you), SSA uses your SSN to differentiate you from other SSN card holders. Many people have the same name, but each person has his or her own SSN. Your SSN allows your earnings to be credited to you.

Can a SSN begin with 8?

An area number in the 800 series is bogus, so any SSN beginning with an "8" is invalid. An area number of "000" is also invalid. Group Numbers The group number is not related to geography but rather to the order in which SSNs are issued for a particular area.