Should You Lock Your Social Security Number?

<img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/social%2520security.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: auto"/> Recently I was notified that my Social Security number (SSN) had been part of a national data breach. In the course of figuring out how to protect my personal information, I learned that it’s possible to apply for a “Self Lock” as a way to prevent identity theft. Here’s what you can do. Go to <a href="https://myeverify.uscis.gov/" target="_self">E-Verify</a>, create an account and choose the Self Lock option. You’ll be asked to set up a number of security questions, so only you will be able to get back into the account to make changes. You can unlock your SSN at any time through this website. If you prefer, you can also freeze (or unfreeze) your SSN and block electronic access by calling the agency at (800) 772-1213, but that may involve long and frustrating hold times. Here are the main reasons to lock your SSN: <ul> <li>Your information was exposed in a data breach.</li> <li>Your mail or wallet was stolen.</li> <li>You receive notices of job applications that you didn’t submit.</li> <li>Your bank’s data was compromised.</li> </ul> If your SSN is locked, thieves won’t be able to use it to get a job or apply for government benefits. The main drawback to placing a freeze is you’ll have to unlock it when applying for jobs or government benefits while those applications are being processed. Don’t forget about all the other ways you can protect your SSN. Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet, and keep the original in a safe place. If you have documents with your number on it, don’t just toss them in your recycling bin—it’s better to use a shredder. And make sure you only give out your SSN digitally to trusted parties.  <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a> Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Savvy-Consumer/" target="_self">Your Guide to Being a Savvy Consumer</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>

Should You Lock Your Social Security Number?

by Chris Bjorklund

November 14, 2024

Recently I was notified that my Social Security number (SSN) had been part of a national data breach. In the course of figuring out how to protect my personal information, I learned that it’s possible to apply for a “Self Lock” as a way to prevent identity theft.

Here’s what you can do. Go to E-Verify, create an account and choose the Self Lock option. You’ll be asked to set up a number of security questions, so only you will be able to get back into the account to make changes. You can unlock your SSN at any time through this website.

If you prefer, you can also freeze (or unfreeze) your SSN and block electronic access by calling the agency at (800) 772-1213, but that may involve long and frustrating hold times.

Here are the main reasons to lock your SSN:

Your information was exposed in a data breach.
Your mail or wallet was stolen.
You receive notices of job applications that you didn’t submit.
Your bank’s data was compromised.

If your SSN is locked, thieves won’t be able to use it to get a job or apply for government benefits. The main drawback to placing a freeze is you’ll have to unlock it when applying for jobs or government benefits while those applications are being processed.

Don’t forget about all the other ways you can protect your SSN. Never carry your Social Security card in your wallet, and keep the original in a safe place. If you have documents with your number on it, don’t just toss them in your recycling bin—it’s better to use a shredder. And make sure you only give out your SSN digitally to trusted parties.

Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.