What can someone do with the last 4 digits of your SSN?

As long as a hacker or scammer has access to other personal information such as your name and address, they can use the last four digits of your SSN (in most cases) to open accounts in your name, steal your money and government benefits, or even get healthcare and tax refunds in your name.

What does the last 4 digits of SSN tell you?

Since its inception, the number has always been made up of the following three parts: The first three digits, which comprise the “Area Number” The next two digits, which comprise the “Group Number” The last four digits, which comprise the “Serial Number”

What to do if a scammer has the last four digits of SSN?

Should you give out the last 4 digits of SSN?

Why the Last Four Digits of Your SSN Are So Important. The Social Security Number is not something you should give away. These numbers started being used back in 1936. Ever since they served as a way to verify someone's identity.

Are last 4 digits of SSN public?

Only the last four digits of a Social Security Number (SSN) are displayed on court documents. However, a full SSN can be used to perform searches to identify debtors. Was this helpful?

Show only last 4 digits of Social Security Number (SSN) in Excel

What do I do if I gave my Social Security number to a scammer?

You can contact the OIG's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or submit a report online at https://oig.ssa.gov/.

How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?

Contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at 1-800-908-4490 or visit them online, if you believe someone is using your SSN to work, get your tax refund, or other abuses involving taxes.

What can you find out with someone's Social Security number?

Once someone has your Social Security number, they can essentially become you. They may be able to collect tax refunds, collect benefits and income, commit crimes, make purchases, set up phone numbers and websites, establish residences, and use health insurance—all in your name.

Can you put a freeze on your Social Security number?

If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, you can request to Block Electronic Access. This is done by calling our National 800 number (Toll Free 1-800-772-1213 or at our TTY number at 1-800-325-0778).

How do I find out if someone took a loan out in my name?

Your credit report is a reflection of the credit accounts that have been opened in your name—credit cards, student loans, mortgages, auto loans, you name it. If a fraudster opens a new account using your personal information, it will pop up on your credit report (typically within a month or two).

Can you change your SSN?

To request a different Social Security number, contact your local Social Security office for an in-person appointment.

Will I be notified if someone used my SSN?

By checking your bank statements and credit card statements, you can determine whether someone has conducted fraudulent transactions on your accounts. Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing whether someone has your Social Security number until they use it.

Can someone open a bank account in your name without you knowing?

Because there is no consumer victim to report a stolen identity, accounts opened by synthetic identities often go undetected.

Can you check your SSN online?

Your Social Security Statement (Statement) is available to view online by opening a my Social Security account. It is useful for people of all ages who want to learn about their future Social Security benefits and current earnings history.

Can someone access your bank account with just the account number?

The good news is, if someone only has your bank account number, that won't give them enough intel to do any damage. Take comfort in knowing that no one will be able to withdraw money in your account if all they have is your account number.

How do I know if my identity is stolen?

Can someone hack my bank account with my account name?

If fraudsters can combine your bank details and other easy-to-find information — such as your ABA or routing number, checking account number, address, or name — they can easily begin to steal money from your account.

Can I change my SSN due to identity theft?

Yes, but it is not easy. If you can show that you are in danger due to domestic violence or other abuse, or you are experiencing significant, ongoing financial harm due to identity theft, Social Security can assign you a different number.

Can you have 2 Social Security numbers?

1401.7Can a person have more than one SSN? Most persons have only one SSN. In certain limited situations, SSA can assign you a new number. If you receive a new SSN, you should use the new number.

How can I protect my Social Security number?

To minimize the risk of identity theft, keep your Social Security card and any other documents that show your Social Security number in a safe place. Do not carry your Social Security card or other documents with you that display your number unless you need them.

Can someone take out a loan with my Social Security number?

With just your SSN, name, and address, fraudsters can take out a credit card or loan in your name. Once they've opened a new account, they'll quickly max out your credit and leave you with the bill — which can seriously damage your credit score and affect your ability to apply for credit in the future.

What information does someone need to steal your identity?

What they want are account numbers, passwords, Social Security numbers, and other confidential information that they can use to loot your checking account or run up bills on your credit cards. Identity thieves can take out loans or obtain credit cards and even driver's licenses in your name.

Can someone open a credit card in my name without my Social Security number?

Bottom Line. Getting a credit card without a Social Security number is possible, especially if you have or qualify for an ITIN. It'll be easier to qualify for credit cards if you have an American-based credit history or an established relationship with the bank.

Can someone steal your identity if you lose your Social Security card?

That being said, if your SS card has fallen into the wrong hands, you may be at risk of identity theft. Thieves can use your SSN to: Apply for credit in your name and then not pay the bills, which can damage your credit score1. Apply for jobs.

What information does a scammer need to open a credit card?

An identity thief would have to obtain personal details such as your name, birthdate and Social Security number in order to open a credit card in your name.