Your SSN

Your Social Security number is the key to cloning your identity. Therefore:

• · Do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Avoid carrying cards that display your SSN — notably health insurance cards, unless needed to receive care.
• · Never give your SSN, credit card number, or other personal data by phone unless you have an existing relationship with the business or agency AND you initiated the call using a verified phone number. Always verify the other party's authenticity.
• · Avoid including your SSN on job applications. Provide it only when absolutely necessary — for tax, employment, and student records, stock and property transactions, and so on.
• · If a government agency requests your SSN, look for an accompanying Privacy Act notice indicating whether an SSN is required, how it will be used, and what happens if you don't provide it.

What identity thieves want most

Your Social Security number is the key to cloning your identity.

Your bank accounts

Reduce paper transactions

Mail and marketing lists

Trash and shredding of personal information

Your personal and business checks

Your wallet or purse

Credit, debit, and ATM cards

Credit reports and credit files

Shopping and application forms

Web sites and email

Computers and networks

Passwords and PINs