Alert: Rising Social Security Scams—How to Protect Yourself

Social Security fraud is not just prevalent; it’s on a sharp rise. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, scammers defrauded Social Security beneficiaries of approximately $3 billion in 2022, an alarming 84% increase from the previous year. Awareness and vigilance are crucial in protecting yourself from these deceitful schemes. Here’s a look at some of the most notorious scams and how to respond if you suspect fraudulent activity.

1. Fake SSA Employee Calls

Be cautious if you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Scammers often impersonate SSA employees to extract personal information or money. The SSA advises that you should not engage with these callers. Instead, hang up and directly contact the SSA through their official fraud prevention and reporting hotline at 800-269-0271 to verify any claims.

2. Demands for Immediate Payment

Another common scam involves an unexpected demand for money. The caller may claim you owe money due to an overpayment or as a penalty. They might even threaten legal action or penalties if you do not comply. Remember, the SSA will never threaten you or demand payment this way. Should you receive such a call, do not respond to the demands. Instead, the incident should be reported to the SSA fraud hotline.

3. Suspended Social Security Number Claims

In this scam, individuals are contacted with claims that their Social Security number has been suspended and must be reactivated by providing personal information. It’s important to understand that the SSA does not suspend Social Security numbers. Never disclose your personal or financial information in response to such claims.

These scams can be sophisticated and convincing, making it vital to stay informed and cautious. Always verify any unexpected contact through official channels, and never share personal information over the phone unless you are absolutely sure of the recipient’s identity. By remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities to the official SSA fraud hotline, you can help protect yourself and others in your community from falling victim to these nefarious schemes.