Identity Theft 911 Report Explores Social Security Number Security Risks

Follows SSN Evolution from Inception to Authentication, Usage and Alternatives

While Social Security numbers have been in existence for almost 75 years, recent studies and a growing number of voices show that using them as the sole key to authentication can lead to increased identity theft and fraud, according to a new report from Identity Theft 911 (www.identitytheft911.com).

The report, “You’re Nothing but a Number,” takes an in-depth look at the issue and includes insights and commentary from a number of privacy and security experts. It traces the evolution of Social Security numbers from their original design as a way to track individuals’ income and taxes, through current problems with misuse and up to offering authentication alternatives. Highlights include:
An examination of the recent, eye-opening Carnegie Mellon University report on Social Security number predictability;
An editorial calling for changes in the national identifying system by Identity Theft 911 founder Adam Levin;* and
An exploration of the origins, development and “anatomy” of SSNs

*Identity Theft 911 experts are available for interviews based on availability.

“The increased use of Social Security numbers by the private sector has created a huge threat to the protection of our identities,” said Matthew Cullina, CEO of Identity Theft 911. “The public needs to be aware of the vulnerability of Social Security numbers, and what they can do to protect their numbers and themselves.”

Although not initially intended for use in the private sector, SSNs are now used for everything from medical services to credit applications. As our world moves to an electronic warehouse of information, our SSNs are at an even greater risk for data breaches that can lead to fraud and identity theft. The report, along with other identity theft educational material, including daily threat alerts, investigative articles, monthly newsletters, white papers and preventative tips can be downloaded at identitytheft911.org.

About Identity Theft 911®

Protecting more than 30 million people, Identity Theft 911 is a leader in identity theft resolution, providing innovative, enterprise-level fraud solutions and consumer education to Fortune 500 companies, many of America’s largest insurance companies, corporate benefit providers and a wide spectrum of financial institutions. For more information, visit www.identitytheft911.com.
Contacts

Identity Theft 911
Christopher Bacey
480-316-0211-mobile
732-951-8221-office
cbacey {at} identitytheft911(.)com
or
Mindspace
Brent Diggins, 480-941-8497
bdiggins {at} mindspace(.)net