In the Owning of a Social Security Number: Protecting Your Identity

Theft of a Social Security Number (SSN) is a common but serious issue faced by many individuals. Unlike a traditional theft, where the item is taken and not returned, an SSN is often "borrowed" by individuals who misuse it for their gain. This article will delve into the hows and whys, as well as the legal and legislative measures in place to prevent such occurrences.

Understanding the Theft of an SSN

It is a misconception that only illegal activities are involved when someone uses an SSN improperly. According to the data, approximately 5% of the U.S. population has seen their SSN "borrowed" or misused by another individual. While the majority of these incidents go unnoticed, they can significantly impact the credit and identity of the individual whose SSN is used.

In the past, having an SSN could lead to more severe consequences, such as taking out loans or applying for government benefits in the victim's name. However, protective measures and stringent regulations today have made these actions more difficult. The misuse of an SSN typically now results in the individual simply taking on a different identity, often without the victim's direct knowledge until the discrepancies are identified.

Legality and Reversal of an SSN Misuse

If you have fallen victim to SSN misuse, there is hope. Unlike changing a lost or stolen social security number, which is not possible due to the nature of the program, you can still take steps to rectify the situation. The US Social Security Administration (SSA) offers processes to prove that the SSN was used by someone else, thus allowing you to obtain a new number if your case is compelling enough.

I, for example, had the unique experience of "stealing" someone's SSN at a young age. At my first job, a manager checked my SSN in error, and fearing retaliation, I voiced my concerns to Social Security. They were able to clear up the discrepancies on my records, showing that the incident was not my fault. In more recent times, the process for obtaining a different SSN due to misuse has improved, offering more clarity and support for victims.

Real-Life Examples and Outcomes

One of the more creative ways to resolve an SSN dispute is illustrated in a personal experience. On my TikTok live streams, some individuals started using my picture falsely claiming to be me. To outsmart them, I demonstrated my authenticity by logging into my live stream with another phone, proving that the impostors were not telling the truth. While some people were willing to take down their misleading content, others took screenshots and continued their deception.

The outcome of such situations varies, but it underscores the importance of actively monitoring your credit and identity. Regular checks can prevent small issues from snowballing into larger ones, and keeping evidence of your true identity can be crucial during these confrontations.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The misuse of an SSN is a serious issue with real-world consequences, but by being vigilant and proactive, individuals can protect themselves from its harmful effects. Always be aware of the documents and personal information you share, and regularly check your credit and identity to ensure they are not being compromised.

For anyone who believes their SSN has been misused, the SSA offers resources and guidance to clear up the discrepancies. By raising awareness and taking steps to secure your personal information, we can help prevent and mitigate the negative effects of SSN misuse.