Your Social Security Number and Personal Identification Number are both series of digits that you should take special effort to protect.
Protect your Social Security Number (SSN)
- Never send your SSN by unsecured email to anyone.
- Request another number on your driver's license instead of your SSN.
- Never carry your SSN in your wallet.
- Do not print your SSN on your checks.
- Do not give your SSN out just because someone asks for it. Understand why they need it and know whom you are doing business with.
Protect Other Personal Information
- Never keep PINs (Personal Identification Number) and passwords in your wallet or any visible location.
- Be aware when using your PIN number that it should be protected.
- Be aware of giving personal information over the phone, by email and over the internet, unless you have initiated the contact.
- Be suspicious of anyone who calls you requesting personal information.
- Shred any personal information or documents you no longer need that could be used to establish an identity in your name:
- Pay Stubs
- Pre-approved credit offers
- Shopping receipts
- Utility and phone bills
- Insurance documents
- Obtain your credit report regularly to check for fraud.
- Review your bank and credit card statements for accuracy.