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  • Are there steps I can take to avoid identity theft if my Social Security number’s been stolen?
Identity Theft
Posted: Jun 10 2019
Q & A Main Article 2

Yes. The first thing you can do is freeze your credit. Next, you can follow some of the other steps in our guide: Reducing Your Risk of Identity Theft.

Related Questions

When should I get a ChexSystems report?

A ChexSystems report contains information on banking/check writing history, so it’s a good idea to get one if you’ve had problems with your checking/savings accounts or are a victim of identity theft

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When should I get a National Consumer Telecom & Utilities Exchange report?

A National Consumer Telecom & Utilities Exchange (NCTUE) report contains customer data reported by NCTUE member utility service providers. It’s a good idea to get one if you’re the victim of identity theft or wo

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Why is it important to protect my Social Security number?

A Social Security number can be used to steal your identity (commonly called identity theft) to commit fraud, open new credit and bank accounts, get medical care/other benefits and obtain employment.

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Further Resources

Reducing Your Risk of Identity Theft
Guides

Reducing Your Risk of Identity Theft

Others can get your personal information in many ways including

data breaches discarded documents stolen wallets/purses stolen mail phishing

While you can't always prevent identity theft, you can reduce your risk.

Read More
Credit Monitoring Services: The Breakdown
Articles

Credit Monitoring Services: The Breakdown

Hardly a day goes by where data breaches and identity fraud don't make the headlines. In such a world, you may find yourself researching credit monitoring services.

Read More

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