Lock Your Social Security Number NOW to Fight Identity Theft!
URGENT UPDATE: With identity theft on the rise, experts are urging individuals to lock their Social Security Numbers (SSN) immediately. This proactive measure can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of fraud, especially as data breaches become increasingly common.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) confirms that locking your SSN is a powerful, no-cost defense against identity theft. This nine-digit number is not only essential for employment but also for securing loans and health benefits, making it a prime target for criminals. As of October 2023, protecting your SSN has never been more critical.
Locking your SSN prevents unauthorized access, making it much harder for thieves to pass employment checks or open accounts in your name. Pairing this lock with a credit freeze creates an even stronger barrier, stopping new credit applications outright.
To lock your SSN, individuals can either call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 during business hours or create a MyE-Verify account online. This self-service feature allows you to lock your SSN for one year, with alerts sent out 30 days before expiration. Many employers utilize E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility, so this lock is crucial in thwarting potential fraud.
However, there are important trade-offs to consider. Locking your SSN restricts your own access, requiring you to unlock it each time you need to verify your identity for a job or government benefits. This hassle may be worth it for those who have previously experienced identity theft.
Adding another layer of security, the IRS offers an identity protection PIN, which prevents others from filing tax returns using your SSN.
It’s essential to understand the difference between locking your SSN and a credit freeze. A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, requiring you to contact all three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Both measures are free and provide different but complementary protections against identity theft.
Experts advise that while locking your SSN can help prevent employment-related fraud, it won’t eliminate all risks associated with identity theft. Therefore, it’s crucial to share your SSN only when necessary and to monitor your financial accounts regularly for unusual activity.
For those seeking additional protection, consider signing up for a credit monitoring service or an identity theft protection service. These services not only monitor your credit but also track your data across the dark web and alert you to breaches.
As identity theft continues to evolve, taking these steps can offer peace of mind. Don’t wait—lock your Social Security Number today to safeguard your identity and financial future.
