5 Simple Questions That Can Protect Your Identity

You’re certainly aware that your Social Security number (SSN) is one of the leading ways your identity can be stolen. If it is stolen, it can cause you enormous headaches. The thief can use the SSN to open new credit cards in your name, get mobile phones or utility service, or commit bank fraud.

Clearly, you should avoid giving out your SSN unless it is absolutely necessary. Think about how many people have your SSN or have access to it. Family, roommates, every doctor or dentist you have seen, every employer you have ever had, insurance companies — even video stores sometimes require it for membership.

If you can limit the number of people who have your SSN, you can reduce your risk. The easiest way to protect your SSN is to never carry your card and to lock it away along with any papers that have your SSN printed on it.

You’re often asked for your SSN, but how do you know if it’s truly necessary to provide it? Well, outside of taxes or government benefits, it’s not always easy to know when providing a SSN is required rather than voluntary.

If someone asks for your Social Security number, pause for a moment to consider whether they really need it. Here are five questions you can ask the person who requested it.

1. Is my SSN absolutely necessary and, if so, why?
2. For what purpose will it be used?
3. Will you store it in a safe place?
4. Is there a law that requires you to get my SSN?
5. What happens if I don’t give it to you?

Something else to keep in mind: Often, when you’re told that your SSN is “required,” the business only wants it in case you don’t pay your bills. That makes it easy to track you down. They can provide it to a collection agency — which you want to avoid. They tend to not be very friendly.

Tags: identity theft prevention, protect your identity

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