What is Social Security Number Fraud?

SSN fraud is growing in the US and this is mainly due to the fact that your SSN can be used as a means of identification in certain circumstances such as to apply for a job or pay taxes.  The problem is that this is a non-biometric form of ID (no photo, fingerprints etc) and so there is no easy way to check that the person using the SSN is genuine.  If your SSN number has been used by fraudsters this could affect you in a number of ways:

•    You could end up paying taxes on wages that have been recorded under your SSN, that you have never actually earned.
•    If you are claiming benefits then these could be stopped or reduced because someone else has been using your SSN to work in other jobs and pay taxes.
•    In the past the SSN has been used as a form of identification for purposes such as taking out vehicle hire agreements.  Although the government is putting a stop to the use of SSN as a single identifier, your SSN could still be used by fraudsters to take out hire and other service agreements, leaving you with the bills.
•    Fraudsters can use your SSN to gain access to even more personal data about their victims, which they can then use for a number of unlawful activities such as applying for credit accounts in another person’s name.

It is a good idea to periodically check your SSN by making sure you thoroughly review your annual Social Security Statement Form (SSA-7005).  This is sent out automatically to all workers 25 years old and over, but you can also request copies by contacting the
Social Security Department directly online at www.socialsecurity.gov or by telephone toll free on 1-800-772-1213 (7am to 7pm., Monday through Friday).