Here’s how a call to my home went:

Caller:      Based upon your credit report, I’m authorized to give you a credit card with a $5,000 limit.
Me:         Oh?
Caller:      Yes, sir.  I just need to verify a little bit of information before I send the card.
Me:         OK…
Caller:      Your full name is …. Your address is…. Your phone number is….
Me:         Yes.  Yes.  Yes.
Caller:      And what is your social security number?
Me:         (Flares go up!) Why do you need that?
Caller:      We need it to process the application.
Me:         But you already have my number, since you said earlier you’re basing this call on my credit report.
Caller:      No, Sir.
Me:         Tell ya what.  You send me the application in the mail, since you have my address.
Caller:      Yes, sir.

Needless to say, three+ years later, I still have never received the application.  I did, however, get more calls from this ‘company.’  Also, my statements from company ‘XYZ’ were disappearing from my mailbox.  ‘XYZ’ was a cell phone company.  Someone was intercepting my bills enroute to my mailbox.  They had my name, address and phone number.  But they didn’t have my social security number.  They needed that to do some big-time fraud.

Always ask these questions: Why is the number needed?  Is it mandatory or voluntary?  How will it be used?  What happens if I refuse?  What law requires me to give the number?  The answers to these questions can help you spot a rat.

Don’t fall for any tricks.  No government agency can deny you any right under law because you refuse to give your number unless required by law.

Besides, what legitimate business or agency would call YOU asking for the number?  Remember, the same applies for credit card numbers.  Don’t give either to a voice on the phone you don’t know.