What Can Someone Do With Your Social Insurance Number
Understanding Social Insurance Number
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access to government programs and benefits. It is a critical part of your identity. So, what can someone do with it if they get hold of it? Let's delve into it together.
What Can Someone Do With Your SIN?
If someone gains access to your SIN, they can impersonate you, use your credit, apply for a job, receive benefits and potentially commit a wide range of fraudulent activities. It is of paramount importance that you treat your SIN just as you would any other personal identifiers.
Ways to Protect Your SIN
You can protect your SIN by not carrying your SIN card in your wallet, by asking why it's needed when you're asked for it, and by not including it as an email or part of an online form. You might not be able to avoid it all times, but being proactive matters the most in these cases.
What to Do If Your SIN Is Stolen or Lost
Should you lose your SIN or suspect it's been stolen, you should act quickly to prevent potential identity fraud. Here are three options available to you: government website, mobile app, and call centre.
Option 1: Government Website
Service Canada’s website is a one-stop destination that provides you with all the necessary steps to address this issue. Here, you will have to report identity theft, fraud or misuse of your SIN to Service Canada. It is recommended to provide as much information as possible in your report.
Option 2: Mobile App
Service Canada hosts a mobile app platform that serves as an alternative to the website. This offers convenience and faster access for individuals who are unable to access a computer or prefer mobile use. The steps remain the same as the desktop version: report the identity theft, fraud, or misuse of your SIN to the mobile app’s designated reporting area.
Option 3: Call Centre
If you're the kind of person who prefers to explain the situation verbally, you can pick up the phone and call Service Canada's hotline for lost or stolen SINs. They will provide you with detailed instructions on what to do next, and you can rest assured that they will take your concerns seriously and act promptly.
Conclusion
No matter how someone may have acquired your SIN, the steps to protect yourself remain the same. By immediately limiting the potential damage that can be done, you can save yourself from the stress of untangling a web of identity theft. Remember the three channels accessible to you -- the government website, mobile app, and call centre. Choose whichever method is most convenient for you and deal with the situation efficiently.