DMV says your SSN is safe with California’s security measures: Roadshow

Q: I am getting my REAL ID. I have a confirmation code and only need to go the DMV to show my documents and complete the process. I am a bit worried about the Social Security number part. California is, I believe, known to have one of the most outdated computer systems on the planet. Will my social security number be up for sale on the dark web once it is in the DMV’s database?

Tom Holman

A: The DMV says it has strong security measures in place to protect against unauthorized access, use and disclosure of personal information, such as Social Security numbers. The security measures include but are not limited to encryption software, firewall protection, and limiting access to information only to authorized team members whose work requires it.

All DMV employees are trained each year in privacy and information security, and the DMV conducts periodic audits to ensure that proper information management policies and procedures are being followed.

More information can be found at dmv.ca.gov/portal/privacy-and-security/.

Q: Recently, I had a super efficient visit to the Pleasanton DMV when I was there to get my Real ID. I had an early morning appointment and was in and out within a few minutes.

I placed my wallet on the counter as I worked through thumbprints, cash payments and such. And I left my wallet on the counter when I left the DMV.

I realized well into the day that I had misplaced my wallet. When I went back to the DMV, I was recognized by the lady at the counter, who notified her supervisor. I had a huge sigh of relief when the supervisor came out and handed me my wallet.

A customer had turned my wallet in to the DMV staff. The staff accounted for the money in my wallet and gave me a receipt, a standard procedure there for money left behind. In gratitude, I wanted to contribute to a lunch kitty, but the office had no such thing.