Here’s a secret way to keep your identity—and that of your loved ones—secure: Don’t give out your Social Security number unless it’s absolutely required.
That’s right. Most of the time, it’s OK to say no to schools, doctor’s offices, sports clubs and many other organizations that may ask for this nine-digit identifier. In fact, safeguarding SSNs is a key first step to protecting against identity theft and other fraud.
Here are 10 places that have no business asking for a SSN:
1. Job applications
2. Hospitals or medical and dental offices
3. Pharmacies
4. Public schools
5. Sports clubs
6. Children’s camps
7. Supermarket loyalty programs
8. Charities
9. Airline ticketing and frequent flyer programs
10. Email messages
Unsure how to respond when someone asks for this number? It’s important to never hand it over blindly, Levin said. He recommends following these steps when determining how to react:
1. Stop and think. Take a moment to consider if there is a legitimate need for the SSN. Many places blindly ask for it, but some places, such as the IRS, Department of Motor Vehicles or military, may legitimately need it.
2. Negotiate. There are other identifiers, such as a driver’s license or account number, that may be used instead. Fight to use them.
3. Get assurance. If you must share your SSN, make sure there are strong security measures in place to protect it.
