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Social Security Number Access Being Eyed
From: David Farber <dave () farber net>
Date: Sun, 31 Jul 2005 11:18:32 -0400
Begin forwarded message: From: Monty Solomon <monty () roscom com> Date: July 29, 2005 6:51:51 PM EDT To: undisclosed-recipient:; Subject: Social Security Number Access Being Eyed Social Security Number Access Being Eyed - Jul 29, 2005 01:56 PM (AP Online) By BRIAN BERGSTEIN AP Technology Writer NEW YORK (AP) -- Recent disclosures of massive data leaks at information brokers, banks and retailers have prompted Congress to once again consider tightening access to Social Security numbers, which have evolved into dangerous master keys for fraudsters. But Social Security numbers already have come under a hodgepodge of restrictions over the years, and many experts question whether the new proposals would truly hinder identity theft. In fact, reducing some companies' access to Social Security numbers could even worsen the situation. Several identity theft watchdogs say the bills would neglect the deeper reason why financial fraud is relatively easy: Speed, not identity assurance, is the main priority of U.S. financial institutions that issue credit. To be sure, the fact that many companies use Social Security numbers essentially as a password _ not only are they the key to getting credit, they can also unlock access to an account over the phone _ magnifies the problem. That's why Congress hopes to hide the numbers better _ by reducing the ways they can be sold, for example, or by prohibiting them from being printed on benefit checks. Even so, keeping the numbers and other personal data out of the wrong hands likely will remain tricky. ... - http://finance.lycos.com/home/news/story.asp?story=50788088 ------------------------------------- You are subscribed as lists-ip () insecure org To manage your subscription, go to http://v2.listbox.com/member/?listname=ip Archives at: http://www.interesting-people.org/archives/interesting-people/
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- Social Security Number Access Being Eyed David Farber (Jul 31)