Don't Let Thieves Steal Your Social Security Number. Here's How to Lock It Down

The article discusses the importance of protecting one's Social Security number (SSN) from theft due to data breaches. It highlights that data breaches can expose sensitive personal information, making individuals vulnerable to identity theft and financial fraud. To safeguard your SSN, the article recommends several free options. These include placing a free credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus, which prevents new credit accounts from being opened in your name. You can also request a free credit report annually to monitor your credit activity and dispute any unauthorized accounts. The article also suggests enrolling in free credit monitoring services, which can alert you to any suspicious activity on your credit report. Additionally, it advises against carrying your Social Security card in your wallet and being cautious when providing your SSN to businesses or organizations. The article emphasizes that taking these proactive steps can help protect your Social Security number and mitigate the risks associated with data breaches, ultimately safeguarding your financial well-being.