A CPN, or Credit Privacy Number, is a nine-digit number that is formatted like a Social Security number (SSN) and is marketed by some companies as a way to hide a bad credit history or bankruptcy. However, 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. Companies that sell CPNs offer packages that include a CPN and one or more tradelines, which are accounts with a history of on-time payments that can be added to a credit report to improve credit scores. These packages are marketed as a way to achieve goals like purchasing a vehicle, opening bank accounts, utility accounts, cell phone accounts, renting a home, obtaining credit cards, personal lines of credit, business loans, and all other types of non-government type loans. However, it is important to note that using a CPN to misrepresent your SSN on a credit application is a federal crime.