Preventing Identity Theft by Protecting Your Social Security Number
One of the fastest ways to have your identity stolen is for your social security number to get into the wrong hands. As a consumer, you should always protect your social security number and keep it private. A social security number and your name is all the information an identity theft needs to commit fraud under your name.
How to Protect Your Social Security Number
Before you leave the house, be sure that your social security number is not one of the items located in your wallet. In the event you lose your wallet or it is stolen, a potential identity thief is now in possession of your most personal information. When a company or individual asks for your social security number, request that you use another form of identification.
When it comes to employment, you have to provide your employer your social security number to earn wages and for tax documents. When applying for a job, however, the company does not need your social security number. Often potential employees are instructed to fill out a job application, which contains a section for your social. Clearly state to the employer that you will provide your social security number when you are actually hired for the position. If a company ever contacts you stating they need to run a background check prior to hiring you, refuse. A company will never perform background checks on applicants. They are costly and left for the individuals they are actually willing to hire.
Ask Questions
In the event a company or individual needs your social security number (i.e. employment, credit card companies and banking institutions), you should always ask the following:
*Why they need your social security number
*What your social security number will be used for
*How your social security number is protected within their records
*What occurs if you do not provide your social security number to them