According to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, when SSNs were first issued in 1936, the federal government stated that the numbers would be used strictly for Social Security programs. “Social Security number cards by themselves were never intended to be personal identity documents because they cannot confirm that a person presenting a card is actually the person whose name appears on the card,” says U.S. Representative Ron Lewis. “The use of these cards as a tool for personal identification and work authorization has significantly expanded in recent years.”

Today, the SSN is the most frequently used record keeping number in the United States. It is used for employee files, medical records, health insurance accounts, credit and banking accounts, student identification cards, and much more.

With the SSN accessible to so many people and organizations, it is easy for criminals to fraudulently use your SSN to assume your identity and gain access to your financial accounts, government records, and other sources of personal information. An identity thief who knows your SSN and name can open new lines of credit, buy expensive merchandise, apply for jobs in your name, and steal money from your bank accounts before you realize it. To minimize your risk of becoming a victim, here are a few simple guidelines to protect your number:

Safeguard your personal data. Identity thefts often pose as bank representatives, service providers and government agents to trick victims into revealing their numbers. Never give out personal information in person, over the phone, by mail, or online unless you made the initial contact or you are certain you trust the people who are asking for it.

Monitor your SSN and credit card numbers.

Know when your SSN is required and opt out when it is not. Many people mistakenly believe that they must provide their SSN when a government agency or private business asks for their Social Security number. This is simply not true.

Select government agencies, such as motor vehicle departments, tax departments and welfare departments, can legally demand your SSN. Your SSN is also required for transactions involving taxes, so banks, brokerages and employers may have a legitimate need for your SSN. Other than that, most businesses and retailers have no legal right to demand your number.

Always Ask Questions. When someone asks for your SSN, make sure you understand why they need it and how they will protect it. Always ask:

• why your number is needed;
• how your number will be used and protected;
• what happens if you refuse; and
• what law requires you to give your number.

Just say no. When asked for your SSN, ask if you can provide an alternative piece of identification. Many companies have alternative procedures for customers who do not want to give their number. If they refuse your request, you can choose not to do business with them.