Social Security Data Compromised: What You Need to Know About Securing Your Information

The Social Security Administration's chief data officer has reported that a database containing sensitive information, including Social Security numbers and birth dates, was uploaded to an unsecured cloud server in June. While there is no evidence of a breach, a registered Social Security analyst recommends creating a my Social Security account and enabling two-factor authentication to secure personal information. Beneficiaries should also monitor their credit reports for suspicious activity or inaccuracies to protect against identity theft.

In a recent development, the Social Security Administration's (SSA) chief data officer, Charles Borges, has raised concerns about the security of personal information stored by the agency. According to Borges, a sensitive database containing Social Security numbers and birth dates was uploaded to an unsecured cloud server in June [1]. While there is no evidence of a breach, the potential risk has sparked concern among Americans.

The database includes personal information such as Social Security numbers, names, places and dates of birth, and other sensitive details. The whistleblower complaint alleges that the server lacks sufficient security measures and access tracking, potentially exposing the personal information of over 300 million Americans [2]. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is responsible for the upload, has been accused of violating Social Security protocols and federal privacy laws.

Jim Komoroski, a registered Social Security analyst, advises that while the situation is concerning, it should not immediately raise alarm bells for those with Social Security cards or receiving benefits. Komoroski emphasizes that the issue is more about how the data was stored and does not affect benefits. Therefore, current recipients will not see an impact on their checks or eligibility [1].

To protect against potential identity theft, Komoroski recommends several steps. Beneficiaries should create and use a my Social Security account, which is a secure online portal hosted by the SSA. This account allows individuals to access their statements, manage benefits, and check their applications. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication and monitoring credit reports for suspicious activity or inaccuracies can help safeguard personal information [1].

In a separate development, TransUnion, one of the nation's big three credit bureaus, confirmed an unauthorized "cyber incident" that compromised personal information for approximately 4.4 million individuals. The breach exposed names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth, but no credit information was accessed [3]. TransUnion is offering two years of free credit monitoring services to those impacted and has engaged third-party cybersecurity experts for an independent forensic review.

In response to the TransUnion data breach, consumers are advised to freeze their credit to avoid identity theft. Free credit reports are available at AnnualCreditReport.com, and tools like DeHashed or Have I Been Pwned can help check if an email account has been associated with any known breaches [3].

While these developments highlight the importance of data security, it is crucial to remember that vigilance is key. By taking proactive steps to secure personal information, Americans can minimize the risk of identity theft and other potential consequences of data breaches.

References:
[1] https://www.investopedia.com/your-social-security-data-may-not-be-secure-what-you-should-know-11802731
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/transunion-data-breach-affects-millions-gmail-security-reports-false-2509/
[3] https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/news/2025/08/28/elon-musk-doge-agency-social-security-data-risk-what-to-know/85865889007/