The social security card is a document that serves as proof of identity and is also required to look for a job or receive certain benefits. Although it is an extremely important document, it is not necessary to take it with you everywhere.
So it’s not like a normal ID card or passport; The most important thing here is to know the social security number that you have been given.
However, quite a few people have lost or stolen their social security card. Nowadays there are many scammers who use stolen documents to scam people.
Cyber criminals use these stolen cards to commit online fraud, obtain loans, or open credit card accounts on your behalf. In this way, they can easily use scammers’ funds to buy electronic products, pay for restaurants and hotels, and other financial opportunities.
Because criminals can safely access online banking, you must act quickly to prevent identity theft.
Luckily for those who have lost their card, there are many alternatives that can be used to get it back.
How to behave in case of lose social security card?
The authorities recommend following a set of pre-established steps, which are quite simple, in the event of the card being lost or stolen.
First, you must file a fraud alert with the three national credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion).
Such credit bureaus will take steps to ensure that confidential information is not stolen. However, scammers can still find a way to bypass their filters.
In this case, you’ll need to request free credit reports, check other financial accounts, set passwords, or place a credit freeze. Loss of the Social Security card must also be reported to the Individual Retirement Account (IRA) and a report must be filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
The good news is that personal information will be protected if these steps are followed. That said, the most important thing with this problem will always be to remember the social security number.