Protect Yourself from Social Security Scams

07 Feb Protect Yourself from Social Security Scams

Posted at 09:26h in SSA by

Scammers are pretending to be government employees. Scammers will try to scare you and trick you into giving them your personal information and money. They may threaten you or your family and may demand immediate payment to avoid arrest or other legal action.

DON’T BE FOOLED! IF YOU RECEIVE A SUSPICIOUS CALL:

    1. Hang up!
    2. DO NOT give them money or personal information!
    3. Report the scam at oig.ssa.gov

 

What to look out for

  • The call or email says there is a problem with your Social Security Number or account.
  • Someone is asking you to pay a fine or debt with retail gift cards, wire transfers, pre-paid debit cards, internet currency, or by mailing cash.
  • Scammers pretend they’re from Social Security or another government agency. Caller ID or documents sent by email may look official but they are not.
  • Callers threaten you with arrest or other legal action.

 

Social Security may call you in some situations but will never:

  • Threaten you
  • Suspend your Social Security Number
  • Demand immediate payment from you
  • Require payment by cash, gift card, pre-paid debit card, or wire transfer
  • Ask for gift card numbers over the phone or to wire or mail cash

 

Protect yourself, friends and family!

  • If you receive a questionable call, hang up and report it at oig.ssa.gov
  • Don’t be embarrassed to report financial loss or sharing information
  • Learn more at oig.ssa.gov/scam
  • Share this information with others

 

Report a Scam

 
This message was published by the Social Security Administration via email to subscribed members on January 25, 2020.

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