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Self Lock helps protect you from employment-related identity fraud.Self Lock is the unique feature that lets you protect your identity in E-Verify and Self Check by placing a "lock" in E-Verify on your Social Security number (SSN). This helps prevent anyone else from using your SSN for an E-Verify case. If an employer enters your locked SSN in E-Verify to confirm employment authorization, it will result in an E-Verify Tentative Nonconfirmation (mismatch). With Self Lock, you are always in control - you can unlock your SSN any time a new employer needs to confirm your employment authorization in E-Verify. Your Self Lock remains active as long as your account remains valid, and you have not unlocked your SSN. The Self Lock feature is only available to myE-Verify account holders. Why Use Self LockEmployment-related identity fraud could mean that someone else is working under your identity and using your SSN. If this happens, someone else’s wages could be reported in your name to the Internal Revenue Service, the Social Security Administration, and other authorities. By using Self Lock, you can block someone from committing this fraud if they start working for an E-Verify employer. Even if you are not currently working, you may want to protect your SSN and identity with Self Lock. How to Use Self LockTo access Self Lock, you must be logged in to your myE-Verify account. To lock your SSN, you must select and answer three challenge questions. Select questions you can easily answer, because you will need to answer them again to verify your identity if you receive an E-Verify Tentative Nonconfirmation (mismatch) due to Self Lock. If you are about to start a new job with an E-Verify employer, you should log into your account and unlock your SSN.
Last Updated Date: 09/15/2022
How to protect yourself against identity theft and respond if it happens. Identity TheftIdentity (ID) theft happens when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud. The identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status, and cost you time and money to restore your good name. Warning Signs of ID TheftYou may not know that you’ve experienced ID theft immediately. You could be affected by ID theft if you receive:
Potential Victims of ID TheftAnyone can experience identity theft. Children and seniors are both vulnerable to ID theft. Child ID theft may go undetected for many years. Victims may not know until they’re adults, applying for their own loans. Seniors often share their personal information with doctors and caregivers. The number of people and offices that access seniors' information put them at risk. Types of ID TheftThere are several common types of identity theft that can affect you:
Read about how you can prevent identity theft. Report Identity TheftReport identity (ID) theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online at IdentityTheft.gov or by phone at 1-877-438-4338. The FTC will collect the details of your situation. Differences in ID Theft ReportingThe difference between reporting ID theft online or phone is if you receive an ID theft report. An ID theft report helps you prove to businesses that someone stole your identity. This report helps you fix problems caused by the identity theft.
While reporting ID theft online, you can also create an account on IdentityTheft.gov. If you create an account, you'll:
If you want these resources, you must create an account on IdentityTheft.gov when you start reporting the theft. When to Report ID Theft to the PoliceYou may choose to report your identity theft to your local police station. It could be necessary if:
Report Specific Types of Identity TheftYou may also report specific types of identity theft to other federal agencies.
Report Identity Theft to Other OrganizationsYou can also report the theft to other organizations, such as:
You may need to get new personal records or identification cards if you're the victim of ID theft. Learn how to replace your vital identification documents after identity theft. Prevent Identity TheftKeep these tips in mind to protect yourself from identity theft:
Last Updated: October 7, 2022 TopCan you use someone's SSN to get money?Once someone has your Social Security number, they can essentially become you. They may be able to collect tax refunds, collect benefits and income, commit crimes, make purchases, set up phone numbers and websites, establish residences, and use health insurance—all in your name.
What can you do with somebody's Social Security number?A dishonest person who has your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number and your good credit to apply for more credit in your name. Then, when they use the credit cards and don't pay the bills, it damages your credit.
How much does a SSN sell for?A separate Experian estimate from 2017 has driver's licenses selling for $20 while, surprisingly, Social Security numbers can sell for as little as $1.
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