Identity Theft: Who Has the Right to Access Your Information?
by HazelIt can be difficult to determine WHO has the right to access your information. This is especially true in situations where you are requested to divulge information such as Social Security Numbers (for employment or rentals). Who has the right to demand that information and do you have the right to refuse?
You may also be concerned with who is accessing your information within businesses or government agencies. Understanding the need for your information can help you judge whether providing it is in your best interest.
Your Social Security Number is Your Biggest Threat
While information such as your name, date of birth, mother’s maiden name, address etc. are easily traced it is your SSN that is the biggest threat. If thieves know your SSN they can access your banking information, utilities and other personal information as well as establish new credit in your name.
Although originally the SSN was only to be used for Social Security programs it is now commonly used for filing purposes including bank accounts, employee, student and medical records. This makes your SSN a free pass gaining access to your personal information.
Who Should Require Your SSN?
There are some government agencies (tax, welfare, Medicare and motor vehicles) who can lawfully require your SSN. Other agencies may request your SSN in a manner that implies you must give it.What can you do to prevent identity theft? Get free adware download and protect your online privacy.
You can determine whether the agency has a right to your SSN by reading the disclosure statement that is mandatory on government forms requesting the number. The disclosure statement will tell you if the SSN is required or optional. It also states which agency is requiring the number and what it will be used for. Government agencies have strict laws about the use and storage of SSN’s – private agencies or businesses do not. What can you do to prevent identity theft? Get free adware download at http://www.pc-tool.info/