Social Security Scams: Protect Yourself
In recent times there has been an influx in the amount of creative ways that criminals are trying to scam innocent people for their hard-earned money. Has someone recently called you? Did they call from an unknown phone number or a local phone number? Sometimes it’s even a number that is very close to your own. Did they pretend to be a government employee? These scammers will use scare tactics to try and trick you into giving them your money and personal information. They will use threats and demand payment so you can avoid legal issues or an arrest. Do not talk to these people. Hang up the phone, do not give them any information or money. If you can get their name and number report them to OIG.SSA.GOV.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) can occasionally call you. But they will never threaten you, suspend your Social Security Number, demand immediate payment from you, or require payments via cash, gift cards, pre-paid debit cards or wire transfers. If they ask for gift card numbers over the phone or ask you to wire/mail them cash they are a scammer.
Things to look for to help identify scams:
- They report a problem with your Social Security Number by mail or especially call/email.
- They ask you to pay a debt in various ways by phone like gift cards, wire transfer, and bank account information.
- They threaten you with jail time.
Please be mindful! Your Caller ID and/or documents that you receive from these scammers look official. BUT THEY ARE NOT.
Even if you realized you were scammed after you gave them your personal information or money. It is not too late. Report the scam to OIG.SSA.GOV.
Don’t let someone take advantage of you for not knowing. Protect yourself and protect your money.