Hello everybody, I have been using my social security number for my taxation purposes. But, I have been recently intimidated by my lawyer that since the crime of identity theft has been on the high I should be careful in using it. I am really concerned about this and need to know whether there are any ways by which we can protect them.

Don't share the number with anyone other than required purposes...

Monitor your credit report. If you will ask for a credit report at Annual Credit Report, you will be given an option if you want to put fraud alert on it for a certain fee (if I'm not mistaken). Here's their website: www.annualcreditreport.com and browse around.

Good luck!

--Mae

Yep, a few good ones, or as I posted yesterday, SSA has some good information here: http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10064.html

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.ph...=113946&hl=

I called Royal Bank Centura the other day (the Royal Bank is a Canadian Bank with a U.S. affiliated banking branch - Centura) - just wanted to enquire about setting up a U.S. account.

So the recorded message starts, I push - whatever - to get through to inquiries, then the recording asks me to enter my SSN. I'm thinking how blase' they are about asking people for a SSN - I'm just calling to see about your banking products, why on earth would I give you my SSN?

It is never asked for here in Canada (Social Insurance Number) - unless you are seeking a credit report or say a loan - or if you are starting a new job.

The word you say is absolutely striking. The situations of identity theft are really increasing and it was only a few days that my friend had been a victim of this. That is when he was advised by his well-wishers to enroll for LifeLock. He had enquired with them and the services they offer are really a plus point in making us secure about our personal details. I too assume that his decision is right to go for such a deal as he is now very cautious about his details. I myself will be taking a step in the same way and advice you to do the same.

Freeze your credit. Credit freeze laws vary from state to state.

Don't tell your SSN easily or to everyone.

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idth...mers/deter.html

That is a great link Richie! My sisters friend just recently had her wallet stolen, along with everything in it of course. Credit cards, bank atm, cash, and she even carried her SS card with her.

The freeze is for 7 years, its free for identity theft victims, $10 for those that just want it. I think its great given these times.

That guy from Lifelock says he has a guaranteed way to protect your SSN