Protect Your Social Security and Medicare Numbers

Your Social Security and Medicare numbers are valuable—know when not to share them.
Protect Your Social Security and Medicare Numbers
Visuals6x/Shutterstock
|Updated:
0:00

Two of the most important documents you own are your Social Security and Medicare cards. Both card numbers represent money, credit, and peace of mind. You know that scammers try to steal these numbers, but often, well-meaning people jeopardize your cards’ security.

There are several ways to protect yourself. And it starts with not giving your numbers out to just anyone, even if it seems innocuous. Here are places you should never share your Social Security or Medicare numbers.

Keep Your Cards in a Safe Place

Start by keeping your cards safe. Never keep your Social Security card in your wallet. It should never leave your house. Keep it in a safe place where even family and friends won’t find it. Make it a point to memorize the number to use if you absolutely need to.
Anne Johnson
Anne Johnson
Author
Anne Johnson was a commercial property and casualty insurance agent for nine years. She was also licensed in health and life insurance. She went on to own an advertising agency, where she worked with businesses. She has been writing about personal finance for 10 years.