Social Security numbers go digital amid security concerns

[UNITED STATES] For many Americans, a Social Security number is the first piece of government-issued identification they receive—typically delivered as a paper card just weeks after birth.

Now, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is preparing to modernize that experience. The agency plans to introduce secure digital access to Social Security numbers (SSNs), offering an alternative to the traditional card format. While the move is drawing cautious optimism from experts, it also reignites concerns about cybersecurity.

The initiative reflects a growing trend among federal agencies to expand digital services. Over the last decade, organizations such as the IRS and the Department of Veterans Affairs have digitized access to sensitive records in an effort to streamline processes and improve efficiency. However, the SSA’s plan is particularly significant given the central role the SSN plays in identity verification—from employment and credit applications to government benefits.

The new system will enable individuals to access their SSN online through the SSA’s “My Social Security” portal. Users will also be able to retrieve and display their number via digital devices for purposes beyond Social Security-related matters, according to the agency.

But the plan comes amid lingering concerns over the agency’s track record on cybersecurity. In 2022, the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General identified weaknesses in the agency’s online security systems, including gaps in multi-factor authentication protocols. Although improvements have been made, advocates warn that making SSNs digitally accessible could increase the risk of cyberattacks.

The SSA says the digital rollout is aimed at addressing the inconvenience caused by lost or stolen cards, which currently require users to request replacements online or in person.

“We believe that this modern approach will meet the needs of our constituents in a more efficient manner,” said acting SSA Commissioner Lee Dudek in a statement. The agency did not disclose further details about the rollout, which is expected to begin early this summer.

Experts Urge Caution Amid Access and Security Challenges

Experts have expressed cautious support for the move. “Generally, anything that improves access to your account or interaction with the Social Security Administration is positive—so long as it remains easy and secure,” said Richard Fiesta, executive director of the Alliance for Retired Americans.

However, Fiesta noted that older adults and people with disabilities may face challenges if they are less comfortable with technology. Nearly one in four Americans over the age of 65 do not regularly use the internet, according to a 2023 Pew Research Center study, raising concerns about equitable access.

Fiesta also criticized the usability of the SSA’s digital platform. “My Social Security is not the most customer-friendly website,” he said, despite ongoing efforts to enhance it. Still, digital access could represent a significant improvement, according to Eva Velasquez, CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center.

“If done right, digital SSNs could offer more security than paper cards,” she said.

But Velasquez cautioned that digital access alone won’t solve the problem of identity theft. Massive data breaches over the past decade—including the 2017 Equifax breach and a widespread 2024 data leak—have likely exposed the SSNs of most American adults.

Even with encryption and real-time monitoring, she warned, the risk remains high. “It’s still about how well you protect both the SSNs and the devices they’re accessed on,” Velasquez said.

Toward a Digital Identity Future

Looking ahead, cybersecurity experts suggest this could be a stepping stone toward a more integrated and secure digital identity framework in the U.S.

Cliff Steinhauer, director of information security and engagement at the National Cybersecurity Alliance, said the future may involve a federated identity system—where individuals verify their identity through biometrics like fingerprints or facial recognition, linked across multiple platforms. “There will come a time when the internet is a fully authenticated space, where no one can impersonate someone else,” Steinhauer said.

While the SSA’s new feature does not currently include biometric verification, Steinhauer emphasized the need for phishing-resistant authentication and robust system protection to prevent fraud.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant, noting that scammers may attempt to impersonate SSA communications to trick users into revealing personal information. “Any communication from the agency—like a reminder to check your account—could be spoofed for phishing,” he said. “It’s critical that users confirm they’re being directed to legitimate SSA websites.”

As the agency prepares to launch the new digital feature, both officials and experts stress that balancing accessibility and security will be key to its success.