Your SSN is on the dark web - here's what to do about it

Before you panic, there are a few steps you can take right now to protect yourself and your identity.

Is it really that big a deal?

There's an easy step you can take.

You can also request a block by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. Expect to wait on hold for a long time.

Stay proactive

I recommend you check this once a year to make sure nothing is amiss. Check the reported income and confirm everything aligns with your actual work and benefits history.

Note that if you created a Social Security username more than 3 years ago, you'll need to create a Login.gov account or use an ID.me account.

The reg flags

Unexpected bills or accounts: Receiving bills or statements for accounts you never opened is one of the most obvious signs someone is using your Social Security number. Thieves can use your SSN to open credit card accounts, take out loans or even set up utilities in your name. 

If this happens, contact the company immediately and report the fraudulent activity. At this point, a credit freeze is a must, too.

Tax filing goes awry: You file your taxes, then get a notice that someone else already filed using your SSN. This is a simple and surprisingly effective way for criminals to get refunds owed to you.

Act fast if you get a letter from the IRS about a duplicate filing. Go to IdentityTheft.gov to file a report. You may need to complete IRS Form 14039, the Identity Theft Affidavit, to officially report the incident.

Pro tip: Protect your tax accounts before this ever happens. The IRS offers a special Identity Protection PIN program. You get a six-digit number to use for filing your taxes, effectively locking your account to outsiders.

Hints on your credit report: I bet you see a theme here. Anything you know wasn't you is the biggest sign. That can include new accounts, lines of credit you didn't take out or other unexplained changes to your credit. 

Government benefit denials: If you're denied benefits like disability, Medicare, unemployment or other government assistance, someone may already be using your SSN to claim them fraudulently. 

If it happens to you, reach out to the agency and explain the situation. They will guide you to the next steps to restoring your benefits.

Suspect your SSN was stolen?

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