What to Do If My Social Security Card Gets Stolen
Having your Social Security card stolen can be a distressing experience, as it contains sensitive personal information that can be used for identity theft. If you find out that your Social Security card has been stolen, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect yourself. Here are the steps you should take to mitigate the risks and secure your identity.
1. Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA)
The first step is to report the theft to the SSA. You can do this by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting their website at www.ssa.gov. When you report the theft, you’ll need to provide your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and other personal information to verify your identity.
2. File a police report
It’s important to file a police report as soon as possible after discovering that your Social Security card has been stolen. This report will serve as a record of the theft and can be used to dispute any fraudulent activities that may occur in your name. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
3. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports
Place a fraud alert on your credit reports with the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This will notify creditors that you may be a victim of identity theft and they should take extra precautions before granting credit in your name. To place a fraud alert, call any one of the following numbers:
- Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
- Experian: 1-888-397-3742
- TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
4. Monitor your credit reports
5. Consider a credit freeze
A credit freeze can prevent new lines of credit from being opened in your name without your consent. This can be an effective way to prevent identity theft, although it may also make it more difficult to open new accounts or obtain credit. To place a credit freeze, contact each of the three credit bureaus individually.
6. Update your passwords and security questions
Change your passwords and security questions for any online accounts that may have been compromised. This includes financial accounts, email, and social media profiles. Use strong, unique passwords for each account to make it more difficult for thieves to gain access.
7. Be cautious of phishing attempts
By following these steps, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself from the consequences of a stolen Social Security card. Remember, staying vigilant and acting quickly can help minimize the risks of identity theft.
