[TriLUG] Identity Theft (was Re: Security)

[rpjday]

On 20 May 2002, Ken Mink wrote:

> 	I have also learned a few things about the credit industry and about
> SSNs. You only are legally required to give your SSN to 3 people; your
> employer, your bank or anyone that will have to cut you a 1099, and the
> government when you do your taxes. Anyone else, tell them no. Most
> institutions will generate an id number if you refuse to give them your
> SSN.
> 	Do not put your SSN on your checks. This is about the dumbest thing
> I've seen. Checks are handled by so many people and with a SSN, name and
> address right there, it's a license to steal. Also, my wife is a
> recruiter and she gets tons of resumes with the SSN on them. Again,
> stupid. And lastly, don't carry your SSN card with you. If you lose your
> wallet, who ever ends up with it will have your name, SSN and most
> likely your address.

simson garfinkel's book "database nation" has a lengthy discussion of the
history of the SSN.  starting in 1943, the SSN was used exclusively for
federal agency employees. 

garfinkel then presents a table showing how the usage of the SSN has
increased over the years since then, as it slowly became required for

* IRS
* anyone receiving or applying for federal benefits
* AFDC
* food stamp programs
* school lunch programs
* Selective Service programs
* federal loan programs
* proof of employment eligibility
* commercial vehicle operator's licenses
* birth certificates
* Title II beneficiaries
* National Student Loan Data System
* jury selection

and on on.  he does claim that, since 1996, it's been required to be on
driver's licenses, but it's not on my NC license.

  anyway, you get the idea.  to politicians, the SSN is like a drug --
they've become addicted to using it for just about everything.  not that
long ago, there was a news story about a man who was pulled over for what
was apparently a minor offense, and was asked for his SSN.  he (correctly)
told the officer that he had no obligation to provide it, at which point
he was arrested.  it's a bit frightening that even law enforcement 
officers are not aware of the law.

rday