3 ms·
That's the problem, it really is that easy. All it takes is someone to know you SSN and, depending on what they are trying to do, a little bit of information ab
by jeffmould 11y ago
That's the problem, it really is that easy. All it takes is someone to know you SSN and, depending on what they are trying to do, a little bit of information about you.
SSN numbers were originally only supposed to be used as a government identifier for social security, however, they have evolved into a unique identifier for all US citizens. They are used in every facet of the banking/credit industry here and are relied upon in determining financial decisions. For example, it is completely possible to simply know someone's SSN and date of birth to obtain a credit card. Although many banks/credit card companies are asking for increasing amounts of information to confirm it is really the person applying.
- StavrosK 11y agoWow, how on earth is it acceptable to get anything just by knowing an SSN and a DoB? Banks here require proof of ID (physical or certified copy), proof of address and signature to give you anything. Looks like the problem is that some companies don't really have strong KYC rules, not that the SSN is an identifier. We have our national ID number uniquely identifying us, our VAT record number as well, but neither is secret (companies will ask them for verification, or to issue an invoice for purchases for the latter). There's no identity theft I know of, as you have to show your ID to do anything sensitive anywhere.