DMV and the Social Security Number
I am appalled at the number of people who freely put their social security number on their driver’s license. Of course I am more appalled that the DMV (department of motor vehicles) would ask such a question.
We were in the DMV waiting our turn for a change to the driver’s license. We moseyed up near the place where people visit to take care of DMV business and heard this conversation several times:
DMV: “A new license, I see. Do you want your social security number on it?”
Applicant: “Um, ok.”
No one questioned if it was necessary (which it is not). Five out of six people answered this way.
Lose your wallet or purse? Get it stolen? There is all a thief needs to steal your identity on your driver’s license. Many places photocopy your driver’s license (like car rental places and health care centers to name a few). Where does that photocopy go?
Like I have said before, the number one prevention mechanism for identity theft is in the mirror.
Doug