If someone was to steal a social security number, what could they do?

Q:

A: Basically, they could destroy your credit by stealing your identity They could open credit cards and get loans under your name. They could drain your bank accounts. If they have been arrested, their record could be meshed with yours. Your earnings record would be changed and could cause tax problems with the IRS. To prevent theft, don't carry your card on you. Don't give out the SS number unless you have to. If a theft occurs, notify SS, the police, and the credit reporting agencies in writing ASAP. I noticed doctors' offices are still asking for this ID even though the law changed so that health insurance ID's are not your social. I leave that space blank.

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