Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are widely used in the United States as a unique identifier, but their role comes with significant drawbacks. Since nearly every citizen has an SSN, they’ve become a go-to tool for everything from background checks to financial transactions. Unfortunately, they’re tied to critical aspects of our lives, like retirement benefits, and are notoriously difficult to change. This makes SSNs an inherently poor choice for a unique identifier.

 

Why Social Security Numbers Are Problematic

• Lack of Flexibility: While technically possible, changing an SSN is extremely difficult, making it impractical in identity theft or misuse cases.

• Overuse in Business: Many businesses collect SSNs unnecessarily, increasing the risk of data breaches. For instance, some dental offices still print SSNs on invoices—an unnecessary and outdated practice.

• Storage Risks: Businesses often fail to secure SSNs properly. Data stored unencrypted on cloud servers or spreadsheets is a tempting target for cybercriminals. Worse yet, some databases inadvertently end up indexed by search engines, making sensitive information easily accessible.

 

Best Practices for Businesses

Companies collecting SSNs should:

• Limit Collection: Only request SSNs for essential tasks, like background or credit checks.

• Dispose Securely: Use the SSN when needed, then securely delete it. Avoid long-term storage unless necessary.

• Encrypt Data: If storage is unavoidable, ensure SSNs are encrypted and only accessible by authorized personnel. This reduces risk in the event of a data breach.

 

Protecting Yourself

Individuals can take steps to safeguard their SSN:

• Lock Your SSN: The Social Security Administration offers tools like eVerify to lock your SSN, preventing unauthorized access to your profile. This is particularly useful for those who have been victims of tax or employment identity theft.

• Monitor Usage: Consider freezing your credit to prevent unauthorized financial checks and opening new accounts in your name.

• Refuse Unnecessary Requests: Businesses cannot force you to provide your SSN. If they insist, consider finding an alternative service provider.

 

Vigilance and secure data practices are crucial. Both individuals and businesses must treat SSNs with the sensitivity they deserve to reduce risks and protect sensitive information.