New IDs put personal information at the exchange on a need-to-know basis Published June 29, 2011 AAFES DALLAS -- Social security numbers are enjoying the top-secret clearance they have always deserved as the Department of Defense has removed the nine digit number from identification cards issued after June 1, 2011. Authorized Army and Air Force Exchange Service shoppers who receive the new ID card will notice some changes when writing a check, putting something on layaway or making a return at the exchange facility. The absence of the Social Security number, the only number used by DoD for financial transactions to recover lost funds, means that cashiers will scan the new IDs to facilitate certain financial transactions. "We've spent a great deal of time upgrading our systems to recognize the new IDs and provide these services without interruption," said the exchange's senior enlisted advisor Chief Master Sgt. Jeffry Helm. "The scanning process not only is more convenient, but also helps protect service members' personal data. So whether the ID is old or new, authorized shoppers have the proper 'security clearance' to exercise their exchange benefit and shop with peace of mind."