Can't convert to a postpaid account without a SSN?

[Beeblebrox]

All companies with customer SSNs get hacked - I don't give mine out except to banks, the IRS, and my medical insurer - all required by federal law. I'd like to convert from a seven month old prepaid account in good standing to a postpaid account so that I can activate my Apple watch.

Despite a good payment record they won't allow the conversion without my SSN and have no provision for a security deposit in lieu of the SSN. What gives? They're the only wireless company of the three that I've had in my life that pulls this move. Utility companies will take deposits in lieu of the SSN as well. 

I've seen other posts that say one could do this after six months of prepaid but the representative I just got off the line with wouldn't. Anyone else with a different experience?

[47seijar]

An SSN is now necessary for a post-paid account. IIRC, it's now the law as per anti-fraud legislation. I do know that it is now Verizon policy, and that the system doesn't allow for a CS rep to override it. No SSN, no post-paid account. 

[vzw_customer_support]

We understand your concerns about sharing sensitive information such as your SSN, Beeblebrox. Rest assured that any information you give us is protected to the fullest extent. 47seijar is correct. At this time, we do ask for sensitive items such as the SSN when setting up a postpaid account with us. If online access to your information has you concerned, you may set up the new postpaid account in one of our corporate-owned locations (denoted in red on this page): http://spr.ly/6606EpEeu

GeorgeS_VZW

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If my response answered your question please click the “Correct Answer” button under my response. This ensures others can benefit from our conversation. Thanks in advance for your help with this!!

[Beeblebrox]

It's definitely not the law with public utilities at least as recently as last March. If it *is* the law there's a one sheet bit of federal legalese they're required (by federal law) to provide detailing why they are entitled to very sensitive financial information. Banks, employers, and medical insurers are legally entitled to my SSN but that's about it. Verizon has never provided me with this sheet and therefore I still call [removed] 

Again, I'd happily put down a 3-6 month deposit but they've refused. This is strictly  their internal policy. 

Content modified as required by @verizon_wireless_terms

[Beeblebrox]

George, you're missing the point entirely.