Should I be worried if someone has my Social Security number?

If you provided a scammer with your Social Security Number directly, or you already think your number was used fraudulently, you will need to act more urgently. You can place a credit freeze on your account with the three credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Transunion and Experian.

What do I do if I gave my SSN to a scammer?

You may reach the FTC’s identity theft hotline toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft. Additional Resources: Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft. IRS Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft.

Can I change my SSN?

The Social Security Administration does allow you to change your number, but only under limited circumstances, such as identity theft or if your safety is in danger. You will also need to supply appropriate documentation to support your application for a new number.

What can someone do with my SSN and DOB?

5 things someone can do with a stolen Social Security number
  • Open new accounts. If someone has your SSN, they can open new accounts in your name. …
  • File fraudulent tax returns. Your Social Security number is also used to file your taxes in most cases. …
  • Obtain medical care. …
  • Steal your benefits. …
  • Commit crimes.

What happens if I get scammed?

If you’ve been scammed, consider reporting the fraud to the police to see if they can take any action, as well as to your state consumer protection office. You can also report scams to the FTC. File a report online with the FTC, or by phone at (877) 382-4357.

Can you put a freeze on your Social Security number?

Freezing Your Social Security Number

First, you’ll need to create an account on E-Verify, which is managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Once you do, follow the prompts to freeze your SSN. Then, file a police report. Immediately after freezing, contact the authorities.

What if my SSN is on the dark web?

Report any Social Security number theft.

Report the theft of the Social Security number to the IRS (link is external), or you can call 1-800-908-4490.

Can you get money back after being scammed?

Contact your bank immediately to let them know what’s happened and ask if you can get a refund. Most banks should reimburse you if you’ve transferred money to someone because of a scam.

Will a scammer come to my house?

We have heard such reports in the past and to our knowledge no scammer has actually come to the victim’s house.” Unfortunately, it is easy for scammers to find your home address online. In many cases, the impostor scams come from places outside the U.S. such as Jamaica and Costa Rica.

How do I get my money back after being cheated online?

Contact your bank or credit card company as soon as possible after you discover that you’ve been victimized by a scammer. You may be able to recover some or all of your money. However, you generally must notify your bank or credit card company within 30 days of the transaction.

Do banks reimburse stolen money?

In most cases, banks offer debit fraud protection and must refund the money as long as the customer follows the bank’s fraud reporting procedures in a timely manner.

How do I report a scammer?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the main agency that collects scam reports. Report the scam to the FTC online, or by phone at 1-877-382-4357 (9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, ET).