One of the contributing factors to the proliferation of identity theft in the United States is the prevalence of situations in which individuals are required to submit personal SSNs. It was never the intention of the Social Security Number (SSN) never intended to serve as the main identifier that could be used for everyone. Still, in many respects, that is precisely what occurred. Consumers are privileged in that they may secure their Social Security numbers (SSNs) through various strategies.

When to Give Your Social Security Number?

Everyone who asks for your Social Security number may not truly require it. If an organization wants to reveal details regarding you to the Treasury Department (IRS), you will be required to provide your Social Security number (SSN) in most cases. This comprises your current employer, banks and other lending institutions, the United States Treasury for certificates of deposit, and state offices for welfare benefits and workers' rehabilitation.

How to Protect Your SSN?

Below are some ways to protect your Social Security Number:

1. Make Available an Additional Form of Identification

Instead of giving your Social Security number to a company or other entity that requests it, give them the number on your driver's license. A citizenship card, evidence of current and former residence (such as electricity bills), and an id Card from an educational institution, are other acceptable alternatives to the standard forms of identification.

2. Inquire as to the rationale for their desire for it and what will be managed

If, indeed, the company is insisting, you should inquire more. You have the right to understand why it is essential to disclose your Social Security number and how the information will be treated when provided. Ask queries like as:

• Why is it required to have my Social Security number?
• If I give you my phone number, with whom do you plan to share it?
• Where exactly will my phone number be saved?
• Is there a rule concerning users' security, and if so, may I view them?
• If someone steals my information or it becomes hacked, would you be responsible for any liabilities or damages I incur?

3. Do not bring your card into the store

Your Ss Card is not something that should be carried around in your bank account or pocketbook at any time. Never enter your Social Security number into your smartphone, laptop, or another electronic device. It is unlikely that you will require your card at any point. In most cases, the only necessary thing is to recite the number. You should remember the number, but keep the wallet in a secure location at home.

4. Shred any mail or documents that include personal information

Personality fraudsters are drawn to areas where there is discarded mail and papers. Don't just toss out papers that you know contain personal information like your Social Security number. You should invest in a shredding machine and make frequent use of it. As you're at it, ensure you don't leave your stuff in an email inbox that's outside for an extended time. Mail theft seems to be another method that identity thieves might use to get away with your private details.

5. Avoid Using Your Social Security Number as a Password

Never use your whole Social Security number, or even a portion of it, as a password for anything. Someone can either steal the password manager and decode it, or they can just observe you enter it in a while, standing behind you and looking over your back.

6. Never Give Your Social Security Number Out Via a Digital Device

Never give your Social Security number by e-mail or instant message, no matter how tempting it may be. The vast majority of these texts can be snatched and read by an outside party. Additionally, never leave a message that includes your Social Security number. If you require to get in touch with someone and provide them with your phone number, the most effective way to do it is in person. Reaching out to them by phone and conducting the conversation in real-time is the next best option.

7. Don't Hand It Out to Unknown Individuals

It is strongly advised that you do not give your Social Security number to a stranger who phones you and asks for it over the phone. The same caution should be exercised concerning any online forms you complete and unsolicited communications. In short, you should avoid giving out your Social Security number to anybody unless you can verify that they have a legitimate need for it and are authorized to possess it.

8. Keep an eye on your financial accounts, including your debit and credit card

Maintain a close eye on the balances of both your bank account and your credit cards. This is one technique to check that neither your Social Security number nor your identity has been stolen. You may enroll for account notifications at many different institutions. If your payments surpass a specific amount or someone attempts to log into your account using your Social Security number, you will get phone calls or SMS messages from the company.

9. Give some thought to using an identity security company

You can sign up with an identity security program to pay for the privilege of securing your personal information. These businesses often demand fees, with the lowest beginning at about ten dollars each month. Mainstream rating organizations like Equifax and TransUnion and financial institutions like banks and credit unions offer clients bundled products and services. The most reliable credit-tracking services typically provide users with various fraud prevention resources and services.

10. Don't Remember to Keep Your Child's Social Security Number Safe!

While you are vigilant about guarding your own Social Security number, you should also be vigilant about guarding the numbers of your children. This problem manifests itself most frequently at the medical facility. To your great relief, the vast majority of medical institutions are more than delighted to utilize coverage bank details rather than your or your kid's Social Security number.