How to Protect Your SSN Offer an Alternative Form of ID. Ask Why They Want It and How It Will Be Handled. Leave Your Card at Home. Shred Mail and Documents With Personal Details. Don't Use Your SSN as a Password. Don't Send Your SSN via an Electronic Device. Don't Give It Out to Strangers. Monitor Your Bank Accounts.
Check the format of the social security number. The number should have nine digits, separated by hyphens in the following format: -xx-x. The three groupings represent an area number, group number, and serial number, respectively.