What to Do If Your Social Security Number Is Compromised
Finding out your Social Security number (SSN) has been compromised can be a real headache—but don't worry, you’ve got options. The most important thing is to act quickly and take the right steps to protect yourself from fraud and identity theft.
5 steps to take if your Social Security number is stolen
1. Freeze your credit immediately
A credit freeze makes it much harder for someone to open a new account in your name. It’s free, and you can freeze your credit by contacting the three major credit bureaus:
A freeze won't affect your current accounts, but it will stop new lines of credit and deposit accounts from being opened—so make sure you temporarily lift the freeze if you’re applying for any loans or new accounts yourself.
2. Notify the IRS
If someone has your SSN, they might try to file a fraudulent tax return and steal your tax refund. To prevent this, you can file a report with the IRS by filling out Form 14039, an Identity Theft Affidavit. You might also want to apply for an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), which adds an extra layer of security to your tax filings.
3. File an identity theft report
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can help you recover from identity theft. Go to: identitytheft.gov and file a report. The FTC will create a recovery plan that’s tailored to your situation. They also provide sample letters you can send to businesses or creditors to dispute fraudulent accounts.
4. Monitor your credit and bank accounts
Your Social Security number is often a gateway to opening credit accounts in your name, so monitoring your credit is key. Check your credit report for any unfamiliar accounts or activity. You can get a free credit report from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year at annualcreditreport.com.
5. Protect your bank accounts
Here are a few steps you might want to take with your bank accounts:
Update your passwords for Online Banking and our mobile app
Set up two-factor authentication for added security
If you see any unauthorized transactions, report them immediately. You’ll likely be able to reverse the charges, but prompt reporting is key.
One of the best ways to protect your Social Security number in the future is to limit how often you share it. Only provide your SSN when necessary and avoid sending it through email or unsecured websites.
A compromised Social Security number can be stressful, but taking the proper steps can limit the damage and protect your financial future. The key is to act fast, stay on top of your credit and accounts, and make sure to notify the proper authorities when needed. At City of Firsts Community Federal Credit Union we’re here to help. If you have any concerns or need assistance, don't hesitate to contact us.