Social Security Scams: How To Handle Calls Claiming There’s a Problem with Your Account
Written by
Katie Wudel
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Social Security scams have been on the rise recently, and some experts say it’s only going to get worse as 2023 progresses. Scams range from mail fraud to callers pretending to be Social Security officials creating an urgent need for your personal information over the phone. If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there’s a problem with your Social Security number or account, here’s how you can protect yourself.Â
The Social Security Administration states that if there is a problem at all with any aspect of your number, account, etc., they will mail you a letter first. Generally, you will only receive a phone call from them if you yourself have previously requested the call or if you have ongoing business with them.Â
One of the latest scam tricks is fraudsters using robocalls or live callers pretending to be government employees and claiming there is identity theft or another problem with your SSN, account or benefits. These criminals often threaten arrest or other legal action or may offer to increase your benefit check, protect assets or resolve the supposed identity theft. They then demand payment via a retail gift card, wire transfer, prepaid debit cards, digital currency or even ask you to mail cash.
Important to remember: Social Security employees will never threaten you for information or promise a benefit in exchange for your money or personal information. This is Social Security — they already have all of your personal information.
The Social Security Administration says to look out for:
- A caller saying there is a problem with your SSN or account.
- Any call asking you to pay a fine or debt with retail gift cards, wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, internet currency or by mailing cash.
- Scammers pretending they’re from U.S. or another government agency. Caller ID or documents sent by email may look official but they are not.
Social Security will never threaten you, suspend your SSN, demand immediate payment from you, require payment by cash, prepaid debit card, internet currency or wire transfer, ask for gift card numbers over the phone or to wire/mail cash, ask for personal or banking information to give you a COLA.
If you receive one of these calls, hang up. You can report the criminals through the agency’s Inspector General Website or call the Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
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