Have you ever wondered what’s the first thing you should do if you hear your SSN

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Have you ever wondered what's the first thing you should do if you hear your SSN was exposed online?If not, here are 5 steps that will help protect your identity and finances in this worst-case scenario.

1. Check if your SSN has been used to apply for social benefits in your name by creating a 'mySocialSecurity' account on the Social Security Administration's website:

https://www.ssa.gov/onlineservices/

2. Check your financial accounts to look for signs of suspicious activity.

3. Do a free credit report check every four months.

4. If you notice suspicious activity, prevent further financial fraud by temporarily freezing your credits and financial accounts.

5. Avoid legal issues by reporting fraudulent activities to law enforcement, credit reporting agencies, and the IRS.

6. Above all, think before clicking a link!