The Social Security Administration (SSA) is tightening its procedures to prevent Social Security numbers from being stolen. Criminals who gain access to an individual's Social Security number can in many cases withdraw money or make charges against bank and credit accounts.

Identity theft, which usually involves the use of stolen Social Security or credit card numbers, has risen sharply in the past three years. Many local police departments now have officers and in some cases entire units assigned to identity thefts. Also, heightened national security concerns are focusing attention on the theft and misuse of Social Security numbers, and SSA has recently implemented steps that make it more difficult for non-citizens to get a number.

The Social Security Administration's website provides information about whom to contact if you believe your number is being used by someone else or if you are aware of people illegally trying to secure your number. To access SSA's identity theft page, go to www.ssa.gov/pubs/idtheft.htm

In addition, the Federal Trade Commission website has information on how criminals steal your identity and the precautions you should take. This site also has a 37-page document that can be downloaded: ID Theft: When Bad Things Happen to Your Good Name. Go to www.consumer.gov/idtheft/

December 2002