Who to Call When Social Security Number is Stolen
In today’s digital age, the risk of identity theft and social security number (SSN) theft has become increasingly prevalent. If you find yourself in a situation where your SSN has been stolen, it is crucial to act quickly to minimize the potential damage. Knowing who to call when social security number is stolen can help you navigate through the process of reporting the theft and taking necessary precautions to protect your identity.
1. Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
The first step you should take when your SSN is stolen is to contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC is responsible for investigating identity theft and can provide you with guidance on how to proceed. You can file a complaint with the FTC online at www.identitytheft.gov/identity-theft. This will help you keep a record of the incident and ensure that the FTC is aware of your situation.
2. Report the theft to the Social Security Administration (SSA)
Next, you should report the theft to the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA can help you monitor your account for any suspicious activity and provide you with information on how to protect your SSN. You can report the theft by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) or by visiting your local SSA office. Be prepared to provide your personal information and details about the theft.
3. Contact the three major credit bureaus
To prevent identity thieves from opening new accounts in your name, it is essential to contact the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can place a fraud alert on your credit reports, which will require potential creditors to take additional steps to verify your identity before granting credit. To do this, you can call each credit bureau’s fraud department:
– Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
– Experian: 1-888-397-3742
– TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
4. Consider placing a credit freeze
In addition to placing a fraud alert, you may want to consider placing a credit freeze on your credit reports. A credit freeze prevents creditors from accessing your credit reports without your consent, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. To place a credit freeze, you will need to contact each credit bureau individually:
– Equifax: www.equifax.com/personal/credit-freeze/
– Experian: www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
– TransUnion: www.transunion.com/freeze
5. Monitor your accounts and credit reports
After taking the necessary steps to report the theft and protect your SSN, it is crucial to monitor your accounts and credit reports for any suspicious activity. Regularly check your bank statements, credit card statements, and credit reports for any unauthorized transactions or inquiries. If you notice any discrepancies, report them immediately to the respective financial institution or credit bureau.
In conclusion, when your social security number is stolen, it is essential to act quickly and contact the appropriate authorities. By following these steps, you can minimize the potential damage and protect your identity from further harm. Remember to stay vigilant and proactive in monitoring your accounts and credit reports to ensure your financial security.
