You also can lock your SSN by visiting the Department of Homeland Security's myE-Verify website. Activating the site's Self Lock feature can stop someone from using your SSN for employment fraud. Keep in mind that you're not able to "freeze" your SSN, meaning that it can't be used at all.
This type of identity theft is a very real threat. In 2024, nearly 3 billion Social Security numbers were reportedly compromised in a single hack. But taking steps such as freezing your credit and blocking electronic access to your SSN with the Social Security Administration can reduce your risk.
Yes. You can add or remove a fraud alert at any time for free on the TransUnion Service Center. We'll also notify Experian and Equifax so they can add an alert to the report they have for you.
Anyone with an SSN or an ITIN can get an IP PIN including individuals living abroad.
Identity Theft: If you think an identity thief is using your SSN to work or to collect benefits, call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. If you think someone may be using your SSN to work, check your Social Security Personal Earnings and Benefit Statement.
People generally cannot voluntarily withdraw or stop participating in the Social Security program. You must pay Social Security taxes, regardless of you or your employer's citizenship or place of residence.
Self Lock helps protect you from employment-related identity fraud. Self Lock is the unique feature that lets you protect your identity in E-Verify and Self Check by placing a "lock" in E-Verify on your Social Security number (SSN). This helps prevent anyone else from using your SSN for an E-Verify case.
That's why you should freeze your credit files: It's a free and easy way to protect yourself from identity theft and to keep hackers and scammers out of your bank account. And while this latest breach isn't an urgent concern, big security scares like this tend to attract scammers who prey on the anxious.
Scammers use your Social Security number (SSN) to get other personal information about you. They can use your SSN 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.
Each credit bureau offers multiple methods for placing a credit lock: Online: This is typically the fastest and most convenient option. You'll need to create an account or log into your existing account with each bureau. Phone: You can call their customer service line to request a credit lock.
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).
To verify your identity and tax return status, call us at 800-908-4490. We can't give your refund status or other tax information at this number. For tax account answers, call 800-829-1040. To verify your notice or letter, search for it online or call us at 800-829-1040.
We use certain physical, managerial, and technical safeguards that are designed to protect the integrity and security of your information. We cannot, however, ensure or warrant the security of any information you share or store with us through the NerdWallet Platform and Services, and you do so at your own risk.
You can call the SSA to lock your SSN. Contact them at 1-800-772-1213, and make sure you have additional proof of your identity when you speak to them. Additional forms of identification could include a driver's license or passport.
When your SSN and other personal information is leaked on the Dark Web, cybercriminals may use those details to steal your identity. They could go as far as getting a job in your name. Commit tax fraud.
Taxpayers can go to IRS.gov/getanippin to complete a thorough authentication check. Once authentication is complete, an IP PIN will be provided online immediately. A new IP PIN is generated every year for added security. Once an individual is enrolled in the IP PIN program, there's no way to opt-out.
If you are already entitled to benefits, you may voluntarily suspend retirement benefit payments up to age 70. Your benefits will be suspended beginning the month after you make the request. We pay Social Security benefits the month after they are due.
Your Social Security number cannot be suspended.
Anyone who tells you to do those things is a scammer.
"To apply for a new SSN, you must visit a Social Security office in person," says Nilsa Henriquez, a public affairs specialist at the Social Security Administration. "We'll help you complete a statement explaining why you need a new number and an application for a new SSN."
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).
Social Security Number Services are Always Free.