Whenever you apply for a loan, sign up for a new credit card, or take out another type of financial product, you’re likely asked to provide your Social Security number. Your SSN is one of the most important pieces of identification you have, and lenders must verify your identity.
Social Security Numbers and Why they are Important
Your social security number is one of the most important pieces of information you have. It is used to identify you for tax purposes, to track your earnings over time, and to ensure that you receive the correct benefits from Social Security. You should never give out your social security number unless you are sure that the person requesting it is legitimate. Be especially careful if someone asks for your number online or over the phone.
How Hackers Can Find Your Social Security Number
Social Media
It’s no secret that social media is a treasure trove of personal data. From your name and address to your phone number and email address, just about everything you’ve ever shared online is available for anyone to see. But what about your social security number (SSN)? Believe it or not, your SSN is also readily available on social media – and hackers know it. A recent study found that more than 1 in 5 social media profiles include someone’s SSN. That means if you’re not careful, your personal information could be at risk.
E-Commerce Websites
It’s no secret that hackers are always looking for new ways to steal your personal information. And while you might think that your social security number is safe, hackers can find it on some E-Commerce websites. A hacker can get your social security number just by looking at the source code of a website. That’s because many E-Commerce websites list social security numbers in their source code as a way to identify customers.
Search Engines
If you have ever Googled your name, then you may have been alarmed to find your social security number listed on some of the search results. You’re not alone. Hackers and identity thieves are using search engines to find personal information about people like you and me.
Fitness Trackers
In a world where just about anything can be hacked, it’s important to be aware of the risks that come with using technology. Fitness trackers, like all electronic devices, are prone to be hacked. They can use the trackers to gain access to people’s social security numbers, addresses, and other sensitive data. They can even use the trackers to monitor people’s movements and commit identity theft.
Digital Trash Bins
It’s more important than ever to be vigilant about protecting your personal information. Hackers are getting smarter and more sophisticated, and they’re increasingly targeting digital trash bins – places where you might inadvertently leave your social security number or other sensitive information.
For example, a hacker can access your trash bin through your email account, or hard drives are given away or sold without really wiping the memory clean. All of your deleted emails and documents are still stored in the trash, and a hacker can easily find them by searching for keywords like “social security number” or “bank statements” and your information belongs to them.
The Bottom Line
As we have seen, social security numbers can be found online if you know where to look, and with such information in the hackers’ hands, identity theft is just the beginning of the damage they can do. That’s why it’s so important to take precautions to protect your number and keep it confidential. If you have any questions about social security numbers or how to keep them safe, be sure to contact us.
