Giving out a full Social Security number (SSN) is generally not safe and carries high risks of identity theft, including fraudulent credit accounts, tax fraud, and medical identity theft. It should only be provided to trusted, verified institutions (e.g., employers, banks, IRS) when absolutely necessary.
An organization's collection and use of SSNs can increase the risk of identity theft and fraud. Each time an individual divulges his or her SSN, the potential for a thief to illegitimately gain access to bank accounts, credit cards, driving records, tax and employment histories and other private information increases.
With a stolen SSN, criminals can open new lines of credit, file taxes under your name, or even fraudulently apply for your government benefits. Find out how to protect your SSN from theft, and what to do if it is stolen.
To send your Social Security Number (SSN) safely, avoid standard email/text; use secure online portals, encrypted file sharing (like password manager features or dedicated services with expiring links), or password managers for sharing; and always verify the recipient's legitimacy, providing the SSN in person or via phone call if digital methods aren't possible, never over an unencrypted message.
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.
Open bank accounts and credit cards in your name
Scammers can use your SSN and information to open bank accounts or apply for credit cards without your knowledge. These accounts can be used to take out loans or rack up massive debts—all under your name.
To send your Social Security Number (SSN) safely, avoid standard email/text; use secure online portals, encrypted file sharing (like password manager features or dedicated services with expiring links), or password managers for sharing; and always verify the recipient's legitimacy, providing the SSN in person or via phone call if digital methods aren't possible, never over an unencrypted message.
Sometimes you will have to share your number. For example, when you get a job, rent an apartment, open a bank account, or apply for a credit card, you may need to share your Social Security number.
If someone has used your SSN to open a new account or make a purchase: Report it at IdentityTheft.gov and find out what to do next, including obtaining an FTC Identity Theft Report and a recovery plan.
How identity theft happens
Unfortunately, yes. Many banks, government agencies, and other financial institutions only ask for the last four digits to confirm your identity. With those four digits, plus a bit more of your personal information, scammers could open accounts, access your bank, or apply for benefits in your name.
Lock Your Social Security Number
To block electronic access to your SSN, call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213. Once you've made your request, any automated telephone and electronic access to your Social Security file is blocked.
An identity thief could try to use your Social Security number to do things like open accounts, take out a loan, file taxes, or get a job. To check if someone is using your number for work purposes, review your Social Security work history by creating an account at socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.
To send your Social Security Number (SSN) safely, avoid standard email/text; use secure online portals, encrypted file sharing (like password manager features or dedicated services with expiring links), or password managers for sharing; and always verify the recipient's legitimacy, providing the SSN in person or via phone call if digital methods aren't possible, never over an unencrypted message.
The safest way to send your Social Security number (SSN) is by using a password manager. A password manager is a tool used to keep passwords and other sensitive data secure at all times.
If you're asked for your Social Security number, ask if you can show another form of identification or use another number instead. Never give out your Social Security number when shopping online. Do not give out your Social Security number over the phone if someone calls you.
You need an SSN to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive certain government services. Your employer will ask for your SSN to report your wages. Although many other businesses, such as banks and credit companies, also ask for your number, you aren't required to provide it.
Places where you should never give your Social Security number