What to Do If Your Social Security Number Is Compromised

Finding out your Social Security number (SSN) has been compromised can be a real headache—but don't worry, you’ve got options. The most important thing is to act quickly and take the right steps to protect yourself from fraud and identity theft. 

5 steps to take if your Social Security number is stolen  

1. Freeze your credit immediately  

A credit freeze makes it much harder for someone to open a new account in your name. It’s free, and you can freeze your credit by contacting the three major credit bureaus:  

• Equifax  
• Experian 
• TransUnion 

A freeze won't affect your current accounts, but it will stop new lines of credit and deposit accounts from being opened—so make sure you temporarily lift the freeze if you’re applying for any loans or new accounts yourself.  

2. Notify the IRS  

If someone has your SSN, they might try to file a fraudulent tax return and steal your tax refund. To prevent this, you can file a report with the IRS by filling out Form 14039, an Identity Theft Affidavit. You might also want to apply for an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), which adds an extra layer of security to your tax filings.  

3. File an identity theft report  

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can help you recover from identity theft. Go to: identitytheft.gov and file a report. The FTC will create a recovery plan that’s tailored to your situation. They also provide sample letters you can send to businesses or creditors to dispute fraudulent accounts. 

4. Monitor your credit and bank accounts 

Your Social Security number is often a gateway to opening credit accounts in your name, so monitoring your credit is key. Check your credit report for any unfamiliar accounts or activity. You can get a free credit report from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year at annualcreditreport.com. 

It’s also a good idea to set up alerts on your bank accounts for any unusual transactions. If your SSN is compromised, thieves might try to open fraudulent accounts in your name or even attempt to access your existing accounts. 

5. Protect your bank accounts 

Here are a few steps you might want to take with your bank accounts: 

• Update your passwords for Online Banking and our mobile app.¹ 
• Set up two-factor authentication for added security 
• Enroll in fraud detection services if your bank or credit union offers them 

If you see any unauthorized transactions, report them to your bank or credit union immediately. You’ll likely be able to reverse the charges, but prompt reporting is key. 

One of the best ways to protect your Social Security number in the future is to limit how often you share it. Only provide your SSN when absolutely necessary and avoid sending it through email or unsecured websites. 

A compromised Social Security number can be stressful, but taking the right steps can limit the damage and protect your financial future. The key is to act fast, stay on top of your credit and accounts, and make sure to notify the proper authorities when needed. At General Electric Credit Union, we’re here to help. If you have any concerns or need assistance, don't hesitate to contact us.