Is it safe to text your social security number? (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to text your social security number? ›

No, it is not safe to text your social security number. Text messages are not secure, and hacking or message interception is always a risk. Reputable companies who do legitimate business know not to ask for your social security number via text.

While it might be convenient, it's not safe to email or text your SSN. Why? Because a hacker might intercept the number and use it to commit fraud.

The safest way to send your Social Security number (SSN) is by using a password manager. A password manager is a tool used to keep passwords and other sensitive data secure at all times.

Be careful when giving people the last four digits of your number. Sometimes people will ask for the last four digits of your Social Security number. Be sure to keep those numbers safe because they're unique to you. Dishonest people can find out the other numbers in your Social Security number, but not the last four.

Without encryption, text messages are vulnerable to interception at various points along their journey—from the sender's device to the recipient's device, passing through multiple network nodes and infrastructure components.

Don't ever give out your Social Security number or any other personal information to someone you don't know who initiates contact with you by phone, e-mail or in person: For example, if you receive an e-mail that claims that you must provide personal information to claim a refund from the IRS, it's a scam.

You can lock your SSN by calling the Social Security Administration or by creating an E-Verify account. Also, you can contact all three of the nationwide CRAs to place a freeze on your credit reports.

It is normal for companies that provide internet, cable or phone service to ask for a prospective customer's Social Security number so they can run a credit check. They are, in a way, extending credit to you, in the form of service that you haven't yet paid for. What's your track record of paying your bills?

There are times when you will need to give your social security number. These include: Anything that requires tax reporting, such as employers reporting your income. Banks for monetary transactions such as getting a loan or opening a line of credit.

Can I share my last 4 digits of SSN? ›

For this reason, it is recommended not to share it with anyone, not to include it in emails, and not to use it as your security PIN. Your best defense against possible identity theft is to protect the nine digits, but especially the last four.

It is important to note that you should only provide the last four digits of your SSN. If you are concerned about your personal information being mishandled or misused, ask the staffing agency about their privacy policies and what steps they take to protect sensitive information.

The nine-digit SSN is composed of three parts: The first set of three digits is called the Area Number. The second set of two digits is called the Group Number. The final set of four digits is the Serial Number.

Identity Theft: If you think an identity thief is using your SSN to work or to collect benefits, call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. If you think someone may be using your SSN to work, check your Social Security Personal Earnings and Benefit Statement.

Don't Send Your SSN via an Electronic Device

Also, don't leave a voicemail that includes your SSN. If you need to contact someone and give them your number, it's best to do it in person. The second best way is to reach them on the phone and do it live.

There is NO COST to place or lift a security freeze. For more information, see detailed instructions entitled “Placing a Security Freeze on Your Credit Report to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft” below. 5. Review your credit reports carefully.

Before providing your SIN number, confirm that you're interacting with a legitimate organization and that it's required by law. Never send your SIN number via email or text message, or reply to unknown requests asking for your personal information. Be cautious about providing your SIN over the phone.

There are many more instances when you shouldn't offer up your Social Security number. With the proliferation of phishing schemes, never give out your information in an email or over the phone.

Standard SMS text messages are inherently insecure. That's because anyone can read a person's received texts, and it's possible to intercept messages when message data is not end-to-end encrypted. However, text messaging can be more secure using the right application-to-person SMS platform.

We don't run a credit check or share your number. Do not send a copy of your social security card. We handle all your private data securely, and according to data protection regulations.