What to Do If My SSN Has Been Stolen
Identity theft is a growing concern in today’s digital age, and one of the most common forms of this crime is the theft of a Social Security Number (SSN). If you discover that your SSN has been stolen, it’s crucial to take immediate action to protect yourself from potential financial and personal harm. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your SSN has been stolen.
1. Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
The first step you should take is to report the theft to the FTC. You can do this by visiting the FTC’s Identity Theft website at or by calling their toll-free number at 1-877-438-4338. Reporting the theft to the FTC will help you keep track of the situation and ensure that you receive any necessary assistance.
2. Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Reports
Next, you should place a fraud alert on your credit reports. This will notify potential creditors that you may be a victim of identity theft and that they should take extra precautions before granting credit in your name. You can place a fraud alert by contacting any one of the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. Once you’ve contacted one bureau, they will notify the other two for you.
3. Monitor Your Credit Reports
Regularly monitor your credit reports for any suspicious activity. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year. By reviewing your credit reports, you can identify any unauthorized accounts or inquiries that may indicate identity theft.
4. Contact the Issuers of Any Accounts That Have Been Compromised
If you find any accounts that have been opened or accessed without your permission, contact the issuers of those accounts immediately. They can help you close the accounts and take steps to prevent further fraudulent activity.
5. File a Police Report
It’s a good idea to file a police report regarding the theft of your SSN. This report can be used as evidence if you need to dispute any fraudulent charges or if you’re applying for a new line of credit. You can file a police report at your local police department or online through the FTC’s Identity Theft website.
6. Consider a Credit Freeze
A credit freeze can prevent new creditors from accessing your credit report without your consent. This can be a useful tool to prevent identity thieves from opening new accounts in your name. You can request a credit freeze by contacting each of the three major credit bureaus separately.
7. Review Your Insurance Policies
Review your insurance policies to ensure that you have adequate coverage for identity theft. Some insurance policies offer identity theft protection as an add-on or as part of a comprehensive policy. If you’re not covered, consider purchasing a separate identity theft protection plan.
8. Stay Informed
Stay informed about the latest trends in identity theft and fraud. By staying informed, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and minimize the risk of becoming a victim.
In conclusion, if your SSN has been stolen, it’s essential to act quickly and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. By following these steps, you can minimize the potential damage and restore your identity to its rightful owner.
