And it goes without saying that this extends to who we date, live with ormarry.
Some people check up on potential partners by having a peek at their social media accounts.
Some fish for information from mutual friends.
And others follow their instincts when it comes to trusting a new flame.
One mansharedhow his girlfriend took it quite a few leaps further.
When the guy refused to share his SSN, his girlfriend accused him of being insensitive.
She hasnt spoken to him since.
Now, hes wondering if he was right to be suspicious.
The Federal Trade Commission is the government body tasked with protecting American consumers.
Consumers fell victim to investmentscams, with more than $4.6 billion of their money handed over unknowingly.
It was a 21% increase from the year before.
The FTC said one in four people reported losing money toscams.
And it put the median loss at around $500 per person.
One of the best ways to protect yourself and your identity is to guard your SSN closely.
For better or worse, you are the gatekeeper,warnsAdam Levin, chairman and founder of CyberScout.
The person most responsible for shielding your Social Security Number is you.
Levin says you shouldnever hand over your SSN blindly.
But rather, do the following if anyone ever asks for that information…
Pause and think about whether there is a legitimate need for the SSN.
Some places or people ask for it without actually needing it.
But there are certain government departments that really do require the confidential information.
For example, the IRS, the Department of Motor Vehicles, or the military.
Levin also suggests negotiating with the person who asked.
You could instead offer your drivers license or account number as a form of identification.
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