Avoid Social Security Identity TheftSocial security identity theft is arguably one of the oldest and most pernitious forms of identity crime. When another person has your social security number they become, in the eyess of most financial oinstitutions, you. That is why it is so imperative that you protect your social security number at all costs.

Social security identity theft occurs when a fraudster or scammer manages to get hold of your social security number. They then use it for such things as applying for loans, obtaining a visa or passport, etc. Usually a person finds out that they have been a victim of social security identity theft long after the theft of their personal information has actually occurred. For example, many months down the line they might start receiving phone calls from creditors unknown to them who are demanding payment for high credit card bills or other loans.

When an identity thief gets a hold of someone?s social security number they can use the power of the internet to apply for credit cards and loans in that person?s name. They run up the bill and then disappear. The unsuspecting consumer, whose information was stolen, is stuck footing the bill or figuring out how to fight the theft.

Protect Your Personal Information At All Costs

The best thing you can do to protect yourself from social security identity theft is to avoid giving out your social security number whenever possible. There are many situations where you are asked to give your social security number when it is not really necessary. Find out exactly why the person needs your number, and refuse to give it whenever possible. It does not matter what service or benefit you are receiving. Giving away your social security number is very dangerous.

Your employer will need to see your social security card when you begin employment, and doctors need it for billing purposes. When you are applying for credit, you will need to show it to have your credit score run. But other than these three situations, and some situations with your personal bank, you do not need to give out your social security card.

Whenever possible, avoid speaking your social security number aloud. You never know when a potential thief might be eaves dropping. Also, unless absolutely necessary, do not carry your card with you. If your wallet or purse is stolen your social security number is one of the the first things a thief will look for and, if they find it, you will not only loose the contents of your bag but you will also become a victim of social security identity theft. Avoid giving out your social security number over the Internet as well. It is too easy for a thief to steal the information especially if the site is not completely secure. If someone legitimately needs your social security number for an internet based service ask if you can mail or fax it to them.

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