If you suspect that someone has obtained your Social Security number (SSN), it is important to take immediate action to protect yourself from potential identity theft and fraud. Here are 10 steps you can take:
1. Freeze your credit: Contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to request a credit freeze. This will prevent anyone from opening new credit accounts under your name without your consent. You can also consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.
2. Check your credit reports: Obtain copies of your credit reports from all three credit bureaus and carefully review them for any unauthorized accounts or suspicious activity. Report any discrepancies to the respective credit bureau and follow their instructions for resolving the issues.
3. Report identity theft and fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File a complaint with the FTC at identitytheft.gov or call their toll-free hotline at 1-877-438-4338. The FTC will provide you with a personalized recovery plan and guide you through the necessary steps to mitigate the damage.
4. File a police report: Contact your local law enforcement agency to report the identity theft. Provide them with all the relevant information and documentation, such as evidence of fraudulent activity and any communication you have received from the perpetrator.
5. Review your Social Security Statement: Request a copy of your Social Security Statement from the Social Security Administration (SSA). This statement provides an overview of your earnings history and can help you identify any discrepancies or fraudulent employment associated with your SSN.
6. Contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS): If you suspect that your SSN has been used for tax fraud, contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. They will guide you through the process of resolving any tax-related issues and securing your account.
7. Flag all fraudulent use of your SSN: Notify your bank, credit card companies, and any other financial institutions if you suspect unauthorized activity related to your SSN. They can monitor your accounts for suspicious transactions and take appropriate measures to protect your financial assets.
8. Claim your “my Social Security” account: Create an online account on the official SSA website at ssa.gov. This will allow you to monitor your Social Security benefits and earnings, detect any unauthorized changes to your account, and prevent potential misuse.
9. Update your passwords and enable two-factor authentication: Strengthen your online security by changing passwords for your financial accounts, email, and social media platforms. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of protection.
10. Be vigilant and monitor your accounts: Regularly review your bank statements, credit card statements, and other financial records for any suspicious activity. Consider signing up for credit monitoring services or identity theft protection programs to receive alerts about potential fraudulent activity.
Remember, it is crucial to act swiftly and follow through with the necessary steps to protect yourself if you believe your SSN has been compromised. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the potential damage and restore your financial security.