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Can you stop someone from using your Social Security number?
If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, you can request to Block Electronic Access. This is done by calling our National 800 number (Toll Free 1-800-772-1213 or at our TTY number at 1-800-325-0778).
How do I lock my child’s Social Security number?
If you are the parent or legal guardian of a child under 16, you can place a security freeze on their credit reports. You’ll need to provide proof of your identity and theirs and proof that you are their parent or legal guardian.
What can you shred to prevent identity theft?
Fortunately, identity theft resulting from items stolen from the trash is the easiest type of crime to prevent. By simply shredding any document, receipt, address label, or piece of paper with identifying information like account numbers, we can stop identity thieves in their tracks.
How can I protect my Social Security number from identity theft?
Consider placing a fraud alert on your Social Security number. A fraud alert can make it harder for an identity thief to open more accounts in your name. You can place a fraud alert by contacting one of the three nationwide credit bureaus. The credit bureau will place the alert on your credit report and tell the other two credit bureaus to do so.
Can My Social Security number be kept secret?
Millions of Social Security numbers have been compromised due to a data breach at the credit reporting firm Equifax. And once your number has been viewed by potential identity thieves, there’s no way for your Social Security number to be secret again.
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. Order a free credit report You can order free credit reports annually from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion).
Do you suspect someone of committing fraud, waste, or abuse against Social Security? You can contact the Office of the Inspector General’s fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or submit a report online at https://oig.ssa.gov/.