Examples of Social Security fraud and what to do if you are a victim of a scam attempt

Scammers have no scruples when it comes to who they target, with their only thought being who the next mark will be. Using fear tactics is an especially nefarious method, even more so when it is directed at seniors to steal their Social Security benefit.

Staying up to date on their latest tactics can help prevent them from taking advantage of you. As the Social Security Administration says, “People who know about scams are much less likely to fall victim to them.”

In December last year, The Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration issued a special warning to the public about scammers impersonating government officials in communications via email. The warning explained that “victims receive an email with the subject line ‘Alert: Social Security Account Issues Detected,’ containing an official-looking attachment on fake SSA OIG letterhead titled, ‘SUSPENSION OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER DUE TO CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES.’”

Furthermore, the high-pressure scams states that the recipient’s SSN will be suspended within 24 hours and that there are several charges pending that will be criminally pursued if they don’t contact the OIG with the number provided. Recipients should not call the number, a scammer will be waiting on the other end or an automated message prompting the targeted individual to send a text.

Despite looking official, including bearing a stamp saying it’s an “Official Document” and “Official Government Communication,” it’s a scam and you should use caution. The SSA repeatedly assures the public that neither the agency nor its staff will ever make threats, either of criminal prosecution or to your benefits, nor demand immediate payment.

Here’s a look at some of the other approaches these unscrupulous criminals use and how you can fight back and help stop scammers from hurting other people.

Never give out personal information

It doesn’t matter who is calling you, but it should go without saying that you should never give away personal information, especially not your Social Security number. The Social Security Administration will never call, text or email someone except if you have requested it, and then only in limited situations. Generally, the agency will only ever contact you by letter if you have ongoing business with the agency.

The Social Security Administration will not threaten or demand something in exchange for money

Social Security Administration staff “will never threaten you for information or promise a benefit in exchange for personal information or money.” Likewise, employees will never say that they will suspend your Social Security number or demand immediate payment. Agency staff will not ask for personal details or banking information to give you a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

Scammers ask for alternate forms of payment

Anyone, no matter if it is the Social Security Administration or any other government agency, who asks for payment by cash, gift card, pre-paid debit card, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer to settle an outstanding debt, if there really is one, is scamming you.

If you do owe money to the Social Security Administration, or the IRS, they will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights. Payments are only accepted electronically through Pay.gov or Online Bill Pay and physically by check or money order through their offices.

Social Security scams to watch out for

Scams between January and March of 2022 are down dramatically from the year before, 91 percent less. However, there were still over 15,000 reported cases in the first three months of the year alone with the most common instance being an imposter claiming there was a problem with a Social Security number. Other examples of attempts to defraud involved saying that there were problems with one’s benefits or mentioning a coronavirus stimulus check.

Also, scammers may claim that they are from another government agency. An old tactic that has been increasing is swindlers emailing and texting pictures of real and doctored law enforcement credentials and badges attempting to prove that they are legitimate, they aren’t.

A word to the wise on how to react to Social Security scams

The Social Security Administration does not proactively seek out victims of identity theft nor contact people regarding problems with their Social Security numbers. If someone calls, emails, texts or sends you mail claiming to be from the agency, do not engage with them or respond. Contact your local Social Security office to double check about the details of what is being asked of you.

Absolutely do not click on links or visit internet address provided in any communication claiming to be from Social Security. Even though it may appear official, scammers have developed tools to make webpages and telephone numbers appear like the real deal, there will most likely be some giveaway that lets you know it is false. Official government websites all end in ‘.gov’.

What to do in the event you are contacted by a scammer

Being a victim of fraud can feel embarrassing, but you should not feel ashamed. If you fall victim to or are even contacted by a scammer you should report it to the Social Security Inspector General by calling the fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or submit a report online.

To prevent falling prey to scammers if you receive a questionable call, hang up, and relay as much information as possible to Social Security. The same goes for situations where you or someone you know has fallen victim to a scam or given away personal information that may give swindlers the ability to steal or use the victim’s identity.

The agency advises not to return unknow phone calls, emails or text messages.

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