Watch out for Social Security phone scams
Chances are, if you own a phone, you’re familiar with this Social Security phone scam that’s been plaguing phone lines for years. Fraudsters have been busy making calls posing as Social Security agents and warning people there is a problem with their Social Security number. This one is a long-running scam, complete with an email version as well; however the scam is always the same.
Following this warning, are threats to take you to jail or initiate some other legal action if we don’t pay up immediately. Mixing scare tactics with urgency has proven this to be a lucrative con.
Know what to look for and how to avoid becoming a victim of these Social Security scams.
The scammers, who either call you by phone or send convincing looking emails, will pose as government employees who claim to be notifying you of a problem. This problem could be possible identity theft or issues with your Social Security account, benefits, or number.
They will then either threaten you with arrest or legal action, or alternatively, offer you a solution to increase your benefits, protect your assets, or resolve the matter of identity theft. The scammers will also demand payment in a form that, though they will not advertise, is untraceable; this could be cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or prepaid debit card.
The Inspector General has stated that Social Security will never:
Demand immediate payment of a fine or fee as a way to avoid legal action or jail time;
Require untraceable forms of payment;
Solicit payments or money in exchange for an increase in benefits or other assistance; or
Send anything with personally identifiable information via email.
Though the Social Security Administration primarily communicates via letters through the mail for official matters requiring action, they may on occasion call your phone. However, they will never threaten you, demand immediate action, such as payment, or suspend your Social Security number. Payments are requested through the mail and will include detailed instructions and secure payment options.
If you happen to receive one of these suspicious emails or calls, do not respond, do not share any personal information or make any kind of payment. Instead you can submit a report directly to the Office of the Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov or 1-800-269-0271 or call us at the BBB Education Foundation for more information at 713-341-6141.