Seems to me like SSN is missing an open free (as in paid for by taxes) 2FA service.
When I obtain a drivers license or passport (or some other process to confirm my identity at a government facility) that I should be able specify my 2FA medium (email address or phone number [text or call]).
Any organization that wants to prevent identity theft should be able to do a 2FA challenge. As an individual I would receive a phone call or text or email "Acme Co. is processing a request to open up a new line of credit under your SSN. Did you initiate this action?"
There should then be regulatory requirements on banks, insurance, etc that require 2FA confirmations before associating an SSN to your account.
When I obtain a drivers license or passport (or some other process to confirm my identity at a government facility) that I should be able specify my 2FA medium (email address or phone number [text or call]).
Any organization that wants to prevent identity theft should be able to do a 2FA challenge. As an individual I would receive a phone call or text or email "Acme Co. is processing a request to open up a new line of credit under your SSN. Did you initiate this action?"
There should then be regulatory requirements on banks, insurance, etc that require 2FA confirmations before associating an SSN to your account.