New algorithm guesses SSNs using date and place of birth

Article



The accuracy of these algorithms is positively disturbing. Using a separate pool of data from the Death Master File, the authors were able to get the first five digits right for seven percent of those with an SSN assigned before 1988; after that, the success rate goes up to a staggering 44 percent. For a smaller state, like Vermont, they could get it right over 90 percent of the time.



Oh thats nice. Wake up one day your bank account is empty your pin number changed and your credit card racked up to max , and you didn't do anything. And the rent is due.

Beauty.