With the Equifax breach still fresh in our minds, many of us are wondering if our finances—let alone our identities—are safe and secure. If you’re one of the 145.5 million potential victims of the 2017 Equifax data breach, the hackers may have the so-called skeleton key to your finances and, ultimately, your identity: your one and only Social Security number. Show What exactly can a thief do with your Social Security number? The answer isn’t pretty, especially if they also have access to other personal data, as the Equifax hackers may. Whether you’ve had your Social Security number stolen or are trying to keep it secure, it’s important to know what criminals can do with it, so you know how to recognize red flags. One of the identity theft-related crimes most people think of is credit card fraud. However, credit card fraud may be just one of the crimes that can be committed if a criminal assumes your identity with your Social Security number and other personal information. While stolen credit cards and the like can be cancelled and replaced, it can be difficult to obtain a new Social Security number. The Social Security Administration requires that you prove your identity and provide evidence that someone is misusing your Social Security number and causing you significant continuing harm. In fact, until you sort everything out, the Internal Revenue Service and other government entities may not know if you or the criminal who has stolen your identity is “the real” you. Five Malicious Ways a Thief Can Use Your Social Security Number
Of course, the elephant in the room is that a fraudster can sell your Social Security number on the dark web, thereby allowing others to use your identity many times over. This often means your information will be included on lists that other hackers will use in the future. 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. It’s a messy business that’s challenging to clean up. If you’ve already lost your Social Security card or suspect someone is using your Social Security number, there are important steps you need to take right way. But the best way to keep your identity safe is to get started from the get-go, before it’s stolen. A great place to start is by reading the Social Security Administration brochure on Social Security number protection. Get LifeLock Identity Theft Protection 30 DAYS FREE* Criminals can open new accounts, get payday loans, and even file tax returns in your name. There was a victim of identity theft every 3 seconds in 2019°, so don’t wait to get identity theft protection. Start your protection now. It only takes minutes to enroll. Editorial note: Our articles provide educational information for you. NortonLifeLock offerings may not cover or protect against every type of crime, fraud, or threat we write about. Our goal is to increase awareness about cyber safety. Please review complete Terms during enrollment or setup. Remember that no one can prevent all identity theft or cybercrime, and that LifeLock does not monitor all transactions at all businesses. What do you do if someone steals your 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 do I check to see 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. Order free credit reports annually from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
Can someone take your money with your Social Security number?Someone who has your SSN can file a fraudulent tax return in your name to be able to claim a refund or stimulus money. You often don't know that a fraudulent tax return has been filed until you go to file your own.
What if my scammer has my Social Security number?1. Report the Identity Theft to the FTC and Police. Your first action should be to report the identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and file a police report.
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