Noah Goldman
Chief Operating OfficerIn this article
Tenant screening is one of the most important steps you can take as a landlord or property manager to ensure you rent to reliable, trustworthy individuals.
However, with the continuous rise in identity fraud, the use of fake Social Security Numbers (SSNs) is becoming more prevalent. Spotting a fake SSN can protect you and your property from potential issues. This blog post will walk you through everything you need to know.
SSNs are nine-digit numbers issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain temporary residents. These unique numbers are mainly utilized to track a person’s earnings and benefits within the Social Security system.
Initially, SSNs followed a specific structure based on geography and issuance order. In 2011, however, the SSA adopted a randomized system called “SSN Randomization.” The change:
- Eliminated the geographical significance of the first three digits
- Expanded the pool of numbers available
- Prevented patterns that scammers could misuse
An authentic SSN consists of nine digits formatted like this – AAA-GG-SSSS. Each of the three sections has a specific purpose:
- AAA (Area Number) – Previously tied to geographic regions
- GG (Group Number) – Assigned within the area number
- SSSS (Serial Number)– Sequentially assigned
Confirming a valid social security number requires a thorough, multi-step approach that demands careful attention to detail. To navigate this process efficiently and effectively, we recommend the following steps:
Verify with Other Documents
To ensure consistency, ask for extra forms of identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or pay stubs. Double-check that the name, date of birth, and address match across all documents and leverage the Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS). Employers and some organizations can use the SSA’s SSNVS to confirm an SSN’s authenticity (be sure to get proper authorization from the potential tenant to use this service).
Look over credit reports
A credit check can expose discrepancies linked to a fake or misused SSN, like:
- Limited or no credit history
- Mismatched names or addresses
- Search Public Records
- Many online databases can cross-reference SSNs to uncover possible mismatches
Consult with a Tenant Screening Service
Professional tenant screening companies have digital tools that detect bogus SSNs and other false information.
Common Indicators of Fake SSNs
Invalid Combinations. The first three digits (AAA) should not be “000,” “666” or fall between “900-999.” The middle two digits (GG) should not be “00.” And the last four digits (SSSS) should not be “0000.”
Unusual Formatting. Missing digits, extra digits, or incorrect hyphen placement.
Numbers That Don’t Mirror a Potential Renter’s Age or Background. If the SSN was issued recently but the tenant says they are older, it could be a red flag that it’s a fake number.
Repeated Patterns or Sequential Numbers. SSNs such as “123-45-6789” or “111-11-1111” are typically invalid.
Using a Deceased Individual’s SSN. Some imposters take numbers from the Social Security Death Index (SSDI).
Discovering a fake SSN is a critical issue, and it’s important to handle the situation carefully to protect your rental unit and observe various legal obligations.
We suggest taking these steps:
Confirm Your Findings. Double-check your verification process to ensure there are no clerical errors or mix-ups.
Alert the Potential Renter. Let the applicant know that their SSN could not be verified. Give them a chance to explain or correct the situation – for example, if there’s a typographical error.
Deny the Application. You have grounds to deny the application if the SSN remains unverifiable. Make sure your decision lines up with the Fair Housing Act and local regulations.
Report Suspicious Activity. You can report suspected identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or local law enforcement.
Document, Document, and Document (Again). Maintain detailed records of your verification process, discoveries, and all communications with the prospective tenant. It will protect you should a dispute arise.
When preventing fraud, educating yourself and your property management team is essential. Start by staying current on common fraud schemes and how to identify them.
You can also utilize a tenant screening process, which includes steps like SSN verification, ID verification, credit checks, and employment verification. It’s also essential to apply the same screening criteria to all applicants to prevent accusations of discrimination.
Final Thoughts
Identifying and addressing fake SSNs is a critical aspect of tenant screening.
By understanding how SSNs are issued, identifying red flags, verifying authenticity, and responding, you can protect your rental unit from possible risks while ensuring a secure, fair applicant screening process.
Chat with our sales team to learn about our comprehensive fraud solution