Why is it we have been told for years that we don't have to give our SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER?

Question

to anyone other than our employers, but every time we turn around there is someone else asking for it. Cell phone companies, doctors, the gas company, the electric company, the water company, etc. It is crazy if you think about the number of times each day someone asks for your social security number. So what's the deal? Why have we been told for years we don't have to give this number to anyone other than our employers. I tried to refuse to give this once and was told I had to provide it. Does anyone know the rationale or logic behind this?

Answer 1

Theoretically, the social security number was established just for government purposes. But many non-government entities have started using it also - it's an easy, universal way to identify a person without confusion.

Many entities have started only using the last 4 digits of the social security number on written documents.

Answer 2

Because it is too easy for someone to commit fraud. Sounds like the opposite would be true, but its easier for someone to get a hold of your birthday address or number. Your social security is harder. Never share you social security online. And always check to see if you are giving your social security to a company that has fraud protection agreement. Usually you will have to sign this. All someone has to do, for example, to get a hold of your creditcard number is give your basic infor ANYONE can access if they didn't require your social security #. People could get into your bank records. Who knows? Hope this helps.