New Social Security Protections
The Social Security Administration has tightened security in order to prevent hackers and identity thieves. Now, when you log into your Social Security Administration account, you do what you’ve always done: type in your user name and password. Then, you receive a security code sent by text message, and enter that code to complete your login procedure.
In the cybersecurity trade, this is known as multifactor authentication.
The result is better security for people receiving Social Security benefits, but the new protections can cause a big hassle for some users. On the first day, Verizon customers weren’t getting their security codes; the problem has since been fixed. Many older Americans don’t text on their phones, creating an obstacle for those who have not yet embraced this technology. At the same time, multifactor authentication doesn’t prevent cyber criminals from fraudulently creating an online account in your name and siphoning away your benefits.
How should you respond to the new Social Security protections?
- If you don’t already have an account with the Social Security Administration, now would be a good time to create one – before an identity thief decides to do it for you. Visit this link to set up your Social Security account: https://secure.ssa.gov/RIL/SiView.do
- If you aren’t into texting, now would be a good time to get familiar with that feature of your smart phone. If you’re having trouble, ask your grandchild or a younger family member for some quick tech support.
Don’t roll the dice on your social security!
