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The Social Security Administration Is Calling – Except It’s Not

One of the most popular ways for criminals to steal money and sensitive information is by impersonating a trusted source – often a government agency. According to the Federal Trade Commission, victims of government impostor scams reported losing nearly $509 million in 2022.

A frequently impersonated agency is the Social Security Administration (SSA). Here’s what you need to know to spot and stop a Social Security impostor scam.

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HOW IT WORKS

  • You get an unexpected call, text or email from someone claiming to be from SSA who needs to talk with you urgently.
  • You learn there is a problem with your Social Security number — for example, you get a warning that it’s been linked to criminal activity and suspended. 
  • Or they will explain that you qualify for an increase in your benefit, but you must register and pay a fee to obtain it.
  • To address whatever issue they present, you need to share sensitive information such as your Social Security number or pay with gift cards, a wire transfer, cryptocurrency or a payment app.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

  • Criminals rely on getting their target into a heightened emotional state, such as fear from threats of arrest or excitement over the promise of more money. They know that it’s hard to access logical thinking when emotions are high.
  • SSA will not call you out of the blue and will not ask for your Social Security number – they already have it.
  • Sometimes the criminal will attempt to add an air of authenticity by claiming to be from the Social Security Office of the Inspector General – no matter what office they claim to be from, it’s a lie.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

  • Don’t engage with anyone calling you who claims to be from the Social Security Administration; if you are concerned there is a problem with your account, contact SSA at 800-772-1213 (but prepare to wait awhile before you talk to a person).
  • You can set up a “My SSA Account” and receive encrypted communications from SSA through it. With this access, you can go online to find out if SSA is trying to reach you. You can also check the status of an application, get a replacement card and more. Get started at ssa.gov/myaccount.
  • If you shared your Social Security number and feel it was part of a scam, file a police report for a record, and go to IDtheft.gov for specific guidance on protecting against its use in identity fraud.

Knowledge gives you power over scams. The AARP Fraud Watch Network equips you with reliable, up-to-date insights and connects you to our free fraud helpline so you can better protect yourself and loved ones. We also advocate at the state, federal and local levels to enact policy changes that protect consumers and enforce laws.

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Have you seen this scam?

  • Call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 877-908-3360 or report it with the AARP Scam Tracking Map.  
  • Get Watchdog Alerts for tips on avoiding such scams.