DHS Finally Realizes Mailing SSNs Everywhere Might Be Bad
Published Date: 1/13/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Department of Homeland Security wants to update its rules to better protect your Social Security number, only sharing it on mail when truly needed and making sure it’s hidden when possible. These changes affect U.S. citizens and legal residents, aiming to stop fraud and keep your info safer. You’ve got until February 12, 2025, to share your thoughts before the new rules take shape.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Full SSNs Banned on DHS Mail
DHS generally will not include a person’s full Social Security number (SSN) on any physical mail. The Secretary (or a designee) may allow full SSNs only when inclusion is "necessary," meaning it is required for a DHS component to comply, in whole or in part, with a legal, regulatory, or policy requirement. Physical mail means printed documents or correspondence and does not include emails or other electronic communications.
Redact SSNs to Last Four Digits
Where feasible, DHS components should partially redact Social Security numbers on mailed documents by including no more than the last four digits of the SSN. Components are instructed to prioritize technical methods to redact SSNs in printed mail.
No SSNs Visible on Mail Exterior
DHS components must ensure that no part of any Social Security number is visible from the outside of any package or envelope sent by physical mail. This applies in all cases for DHS mailed materials.
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