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Protect Your Social Security Number
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Magic numbers used to be for lucky lottery winners and experienced hackers only. Cracking
the code was a challenge reserved for the criminally elite. Now, though, in an era of
passwords and Personal Identification Numbers, it doesn't take much to crack the code and
open the proverbial vault. Thieves can hit the jackpot by stumbling upon your credit card
number-which is why most of us are now taking greater precautions with our credit card
information.
But
have you considered that your social security number could also be a magic code for identity
crooks? This nine-digit number could give thieves access to your medical, financial, credit,
and educational records. If thieves have your name and social security number, they can
apply for credit cards in your name, open bank accounts, even apply for jobs. And you will
be left to deal with the consequences. You've learned that being careless with your credit
cards could cost you, but how can you protect yourself and your social security
number?
How You Can Protect Your Social Security Number
- Don't print your Social Security number on your checks or give it out unless
absolutely necessary.
- Ask creditors and merchants if you can substitute a special password or
code to use instead of your Social Security number.
- Order your Social Security Earnings and Benefits Statement annually to check
for fraud by calling 1.800.772.1213.
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