Bluberries / iStock.com
One of the most important pieces of personal information you have is your Social Security number. The Social Security Administration uses your unique nine-digit number to distribute Social Security benefits to you. It’s also required when applying for jobs or signing up for certain programs run by the federal government. Due to its importance, protecting your Social Security number is essential.
See: Retirees Beware — Social Security Scams Poised To Increase in 2022 — Brush Up on the Latest Techniques
Find: How To Protect Your Financial Information From ‘Data Hungry’ Apps You Use for Social Media, Shopping and More
Despite the benefits they provide, Social Security numbers also make you vulnerable to identity theft, and there are all sorts of ways for a thief to use your SSN for criminal purposes. Besides trying to defraud the SSA itself, an identity thief can apply for a job posing as you, drain your bank accounts, open an account in your name, sign up for fraudulent credit cards, make purchases, commit tax fraud and seek medical assistance.
According to federal data, approximately 312,000 Social Security scams were reported during the five years…
