Recently I was asked to give my SSN while I was making a payment. Since this had not happened before, I was curious as it can be a sign of a scam. I did a dig and found out that not only I but several more Apple Pay users had to face this situation.
I found these 03 reasons that could cause you to give your SSN or Social Security Number.
When Your Apple Pay Account Is Locked
Among the most common reasons why apple pay asks for your SSN, blocked apple pay is crucial. Apple may lock your account due to a scam, reporting, or security reasons. You must give your SSN to verify that it is you and that is okay. Also, if they are not satisfied, they would ask for a picture of their driver’s licenses as well.
Due To A Scam
I found a few Apple Pay users who had got emails asking for the SSN and other information. The scammers had mentioned different reasons for the verification such as backing up, account verification, special offers, and random winning.
Note: If Apple wants you to provide your SSN or any other confidential information, they will ask you through the app or a link on Apple Website.
Mistaking Apple Pay With Apple Cash
I saw that some people had to enter their SSN when setting up the SSN. Although it is not a privacy issue or nothing to worry about at all. There were teenagers who were less than 18 years. Therefore, they had not been able to give their SSN.
Apple Pay asks SSN when you apply for the Apple Card credit card through Goldman Sachs. Apple cash requires a verification process that involves SSN verification.
Also, Apple confirmed that Apple Pay would not ask for SSN when the applicants go through the typical Apple Pay Set up.
I found this article that explains How to Set Up Apple Pay on Wallet.
Who stores Your SSN number in Apple?
Apple Inc. doesn’t hold your SSN and other personal details. They send them to Green Dot Bank and the bank provides such details to Apple Inc. in case of a verification. Therefore, you don’t have to worry of giving your SSN to Apple.
Conclusion
I hope now you know why Apple asked you about your SSN. If you still have the issue, please contact Apple through their official assistance.