A CPN, or credit privacy number, is a nine-digit number that is formatted like a Social Security number (SSN) . It may also be called a credit profile number or credit protection number. Companies that sell CPNs to consumers market them as a way to hide a bad credit history or bankruptcy. However, CPNs are illegal and considered fraudulent. Scammers present CPNs as an alternative to SSNs, but they are not legitimate and are not recognized by the government. Using a CPN to create a false identity is illegal and may be considered identity theft. CPNs might also be referred to as credit profile numbers or credit protection numbers. It is important to note that using a CPN to apply for credit is illegal and may result in legal consequences. Therefore, people should avoid shady credit repair companies that advertise CPNs as a solution for bad credit.