The Social Security Administration (SSA) is warning the public about the uptick in Social Security phone scams, which are designed to impersonate the SSA and deceive people into providing private information or money. These scammers may threaten individuals with legal action or involvement of law enforcement. It’s important to be aware of the tactics these scammers use so you can better protect yourself from Social Security phone scams.
Common Scam Tactics
Telephone scammers will try to impersonate SSA staff members to get you to fall for the scam. Their methods include using the name of real SSA agents that can be found online and even giving out their badge number. These calls may seem official, but there are ways to change the caller ID to make it look like it’s coming from a legitimate SSA or government office. Callers might insinuate there is an issue with your Social Security benefits and offer to fix the issue if you give them your credit card or bank account information.
Signs of SSA Impersonation
Being aware of how the SSA handles phone calls with recipients can make you less likely to fall victim to a Social Security telephone scam. While the SSA may call you in certain situations, they would never threaten you with ultimatums or ask you for your banking information or full Social Security number over the phone.
Scammers often list potential consequences and actions they will take if the caller does not deliver what is being asked of them. These actions include:
- Suspending a Social Security number;
- Promising a benefit increase;
- Threatening legal action if payment is not immediately sent; or
- Requesting payment via gift card, internet currency, or the mail.
Furthermore, if you owe the SSA, you would receive a letter with your appeal rights and payment options. If a letter appears to be suspicious or you receive a call about your payments, you should contact the SSA directly to resolve the matter. Any potential scams should be reported to the Office of the Inspector General.
Call Our Firm to Learn More about Protecting Yourself from Social Security Scams
If you believe you have been contacted by a scammer impersonating the SSA, contact our law firm. One of our skilled Social Security disability representatives can advise you on protecting yourself from telephone scams. Call our intake team today to learn more.
