CPN scams are becoming increasingly common as scammers, often posing as credit or financial experts, seek to profit from individuals trying to improve their personal finances.
At first glance, Credit Privacy Numbers—commonly referred to as CPNs—might seem like a simple solution to getting around barriers caused by bad credit or a less-than-perfect public record. Scammers frequently present them as a “fresh start” or an alternative to using your Social Security number (SSN) for things like housing, utilities, or even employment.
However, the reality is quite different. Using CPNs is illegal and considered a federal crime; they are neither issued nor recognized by government agencies.
In many cases, the numbers sold as CPNs are actually Social Security numbers stolen from real individuals—which shows one of many ways in which stolen identities can be misused. CPN scams fall into a familiar category of fraudulent offers that promise quick fixes with no downsides.
Remember: If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
To help you avoid being scammed, as well as understand how criminals might use your stolen information, we’re sharing how CPN scams work and why they’re dangerous.
What Is a CPN?
A Credit Privacy Number is typically marketed as an alternative form of identification that you can use instead of your Social Security number on certain applications.
Scammers may claim that CPNs offer privacy benefits, provide a clean slate for those with low credit scores, or are special tools used by celebrities.
These claims are not accurate. Government agencies do not issue CPNs, and lenders do not recognize them as legitimate. There are no circumstances under which a CPN is accepted as a lawful substitute for a Social Security number on applications for credit, housing, or utility services.
CPNs often use all or parts of other people's Social Security Numbers (SSNs), making their use a form of identity theft. This can create major complications for both the CPN user and the individual whose identity has been compromised.
Scammers exploit confusion and frustration. People who feel trapped or overwhelmed by the limitations of their own credit history may be more inclined to believe that a "new number" could help them move forward.
This is precisely why CPN scams continue to grow.
How CPN Scams Work
Criminals often acquire the numbers they sell by stealing Social Security numbers from data breaches, medical and school databases, or public death records.
Scammers market these stolen SSNs as CPNs and claim that they are legal to use...as long as the buyer 🚩 doesn’t disclose their source 🚩.
Once someone purchases a CPN, the scammer often encourages the buyer to use it for apartment applications, credit card applications, utility accounts, or other situations where a Social Security number is generally required.
The buyer may believe they are using a legitimate financial tool, but in reality, they are committing identity theft.
Buyers may face rejections, investigations, or even criminal charges for fraud when their information is exposed as a CPN.
Meanwhile, the original identity owner may discover unknown accounts appearing on their credit report or encounter difficulties while trying to verify their identity later on.
Why are CPN Scams Dangerous?
Using someone else's Social Security number (SSN) as your own for any reason is identity theft, a federal crime that can carry severe consequences, including potential prison time, hefty fines, and criminal charges.
In 2024, 1.1 million identity theft complaints were filed with the FTC, an increase of nearly 9.5% from the previous year.
The individual whose identity was stolen could then find unfamiliar accounts or activities they did not authorize, leading to stress, confusion, and long-term financial consequences.
CPN scams take advantage of vulnerable individuals while simultaneously harming victims of identity theft.
Frequently Asked Questions About CPNs
To help clarify the facts, we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about CPNs:
Are CPNs legal?
No, CPNs are not legal. CPNs are not issued by any government agency and are not recognized as legal identification for credit, housing, or utility applications.
Using personal identification information that does not belong to you can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, criminal charges, or even jail time depending on the situation.
What happens if someone uses a CPN without realizing it is illegal?
Even if a person believes a CPN is legitimate, they can still face legal consequences if they use identification details tied to someone else’s identity.
Participating in fraud by using a CPN can result in denied applications, scrutiny from financial institutions, and legal consequences if law enforcement becomes involved.
What should I do if I suspect my Social Security number is being used as a CPN?
If you believe your Social Security number is being used as a CPN, you should report the suspicious activity by going to IdentityTheft.gov. If you are an IdentityIQ member, you can contact our fraud restoration team by calling 877-875-4347, and one of our fraud restoration experts will help you report the fraud and recover your identity.
Identity theft monitoring services like IdentityIQ can alert you to early signs of fraud, helping you take action quickly if your personal information has been compromised.
Keep Your Identity Safe with IdentityIQ
Scammers often make risky offers sound simple, especially when people are stressed or searching for quick solutions. CPN scams are a clear example of how criminals can take stolen Social Security numbers and resell them to unsuspecting buyers, creating problems for both sides.
While someone may buy a CPN without understanding that it is illegal, the person whose identity was stolen pays the biggest price.
Actively monitoring your identity with a service like IdentityIQ is one of the best ways to protect your personal information. IdentityIQ provides real-time credit monitoring and alerts that help you stay aware of unusual activity, and empower you to take action before criminals have a chance to.
Get started with IdentityIQ today, and we'll help you stay a step ahead of criminals no matter what scam is trending.
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