Sometimes, you may need to send your Social Security number (SSN) to an employer, financial institution, or family member.
However, you should never send your SSN by email. If it falls into the wrong hands, you could be a victim of identity theft and/or tax refund fraud. The safest way to send your SSN is by using a password manager like Trustworthy. We’ll give an overview of email security risks and explain how Trustworthy can help keep your SSN and personal information safe.
Key Takeaways
Sending your SSN via email puts you at risk for MITM (man-in-the-middle) attacks and email account compromises.
The only time you need to send your SSN to someone is when you’re filing taxes, applying for a loan, or applying for government benefits.
Why You Shouldn't Send Your Social Security Number Through Email
Although we’d like to think that one-on-one emails are private, this isn’t always the case. For example, are you sure the recipient’s email server is safe? Are you or the recipient using public WiFi where hackers could intercept information?
There are simply too many loopholes and risks associated with sending a Social Security number through email. You could be vulnerable to MITM (man-in-the-middle) attacks, which are when unauthorized people “eavesdrop” on your email conversations. A second risk is email account compromises.
Furthermore, the consequences of a stolen Social Security number can be devastating. The thief can commit identity fraud and attempt to collect your government benefits and/or tax refunds. They can also use your number to apply for credit cards and residencies.
Catherine J. Ullman, a senior Information security analyst for the University of Buffalo, states, “Email by default is not and was never intended to be a secure mechanism for sending sensitive data.”
With Trustworthy, you can safely share a link that provides a view of your Social Security number using the secure link feature. You can control who has access to this link and for how long (e.g., one hour, one day, one week, etc.). You can also see how many times the link has been viewed and revoke access to it at any time.
How to Protect Your SSN With a Password Manager
If you need to transmit your SSN, do it using secure methods like a password manager and Trustworthy. Sending your SSN with a password manager adds encryption, keeping your information safe from unauthorized access. Another benefit of using a password manager is that the recipient has access to the number for only a certain period of time.
Trustworthy is a trusted digital storage platform that can securely transmit your SSN thanks to its advanced encryption and security features. In addition to AES 256-bit encryption, Trustworthy also employs multifactor authentication, biometric authentication, a next-generation security technique called tokenization, and physical security keys.
Email vs. Trustworthy for Sending Your Social Security Number
Don’t let your SSN fall into the wrong hands by sending it through email. The convenience and simplicity of sending an email aren’t worth the risk of having your SSN stolen.
Instead, use Trustworthy to securely send your Social Security number.
Trustworthy is a highly-encrypted digital storage platform dedicated to storing and sharing confidential information. With Trustworthy, you can safely upload private details like Social Security numbers, personal IDs, credit card info, bank account passwords, and much more.
Then, you can share individual files with others by sending them a secure Trustworthy invite link. The recipient will be required to make a Trustworthy account with two-factor authentication. Therefore, only the recipient will be able to access your shared Social Security number.
With a stolen SSN, criminals can collect benefits and income, collect tax refunds, apply for credit cards, and establish residencies. Therefore, your number is the most important piece of personal information to protect.
Trustworthy eliminates the risks of sending your SSN online and brings you peace of mind. Start your free trial today.
When It's Safe to Provide Your Social Security Number
There are a number of scenarios when it is safe and acceptable to give someone your SSN:
Filing your taxes with the assistance of an accountant.
Applying for government benefits.
Starting a new remote job.
Applying for a line of credit from the bank or authorized lender.
If you're unsure about sending your SSN, it is a good idea to check the legitimacy of who’s requesting it. Do this by asking whether there is an alternate ID verification system that can be used.
5 Ways to Protect Your SSN and Personal Information
Knowing the ways you can effectively protect your SSN is key to safeguarding your personal information.
Use Trustworthy
Keep your SSN secure by using Trustworthy’s advanced security measures that give you control over who has access to your information.
Ask Questions
Before providing your SSN, it never hurts to ask questions like why your SSN is wanted, who will have access to it, and whether there is a privacy policy that you can read through.
Use an Alternative ID
Using your driver’s license as an alternative form of ID to your SSN is a good idea. In fact, things like your passport and utility bills can also be used.
Leave Your Card at Home
You don’t need to carry your SSN card with you when you can use alternative ID methods like passports. Just knowing the number is usually all you'll ever need.
Shred Documents With Your SSN
Don’t just throw out discarded or unused documents with important information like your SSN or financial details. Shred all your important documents before throwing them away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send my SSN over text?
Text messages are not nearly as secure as email, and the Social Security Administration does not recommend sending your SSN via text message.
How do you know if an email from the SSA is legit?
You can see if an email is not legitimate by checking things like spelling and odd phrasing. You can find official email addresses off the Social Security Administration website.
What do I do if I suspect someone is using my SSN?
If you suspect that someone has unauthorized access to your SSN, you need to report fraud to the SSA Office of the Inspector General. You should also contact your bank to freeze your credit and the IRS.
Trustworthy is an online service providing legal forms and information. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice.
