Don’t be Fooled by Social Security Scams

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Protect Yourself and Your Family from Social Security Scams

Scammers are pretending to be government employees. Scammers will try to scare and trick you into giving them your personal information and money. They may threaten you or your family and may demand immediate payment to avoid arrest or other legal action.

DON’T BE FOOLED…IF YOU RECEIVE A SUSPICIOUS CALL:

1)  Hang up!

2)  DO NOT give them money or personal information!

3)  Report the scam at OIG.SSA.GOV!

Scam Calls

Social Security may call you in some situations but will never…

  • Threaten you
  • Suspend your Social Security Number
  • Demand immediate payment from you
  • Require payment by cash, gift card, pre-paid debit card, or wire transfer
  • Ask for gift card numbers over the phone or to wire or mail cash

What to Look Out for

  • The call or email says there is a problem with your Social Security Number or account.
  • Someone asking you to pay a fine or debt with retail gift cards, wire transfers, pre-paid debit cards, internet currency, or by mailing cash.
  • Scammers pretend they’re from Social Security or another government agency.
  • Caller ID or documents sent by email may look official but they are not.
  • Callers threaten you with arrest or other legal action.

Protect Yourself, Family, and Friends

  • If you receive a questionable call, hang up and report it at oig.ssa.gov.
  • Don’t be embarrassed to report if you shared personal information or suffered a financial loss.
  • Learn more at oig.ssa.gov/scam.
  • Share this information with others.