[The Other Harry]

Enforcement agencies say the most effective way to control the problem would be to issue a counterfeit-proof Social Security card to every U.S. worker. But a 1997 government study found the move would cost $10 billion, and lawmakers have so far balked at the price.

Right.

It obviously makes more sense to give $10 billion to Turkey. Or to South Africa, to use to combat AIDS.

[sarcasm]

Congress and this administration have absolutely no desire to solve this problem.

[meatloaf]

It might make some difference but when you read about Social Security employees selling SS numbers and the holders' info why wouldn't the supposed uncounterfeitable cards turn up in the hands of illegals.

Sure some numbers are stolen, but I suspect a lot of folks are just making up numbers that fit the known sequences. Employer gets a letter from Social Security, the employee bails.