Protect Yourself and Others from Social Security-Related Scams
Financial scams are everywhere, but the most prevalent scams show up around social security and taxes.
The Social Security Administration will never threaten, scare, or pressure you to take immediate action.
If you receive a call, text, or email that...
Threatens to suspend your Social Security number, even if they have part or all of your Social Security number
Warns of arrest or legal action
Demands or requests immediate payment
Requires payment by gift card, prepaid debit card, internet currency, or by mailing cash
Pressures you for personal information
Requests secrecy
Threatens to seize your bank account
Promises to increase your Social Security benefit
Tries to gain your trust by providing fake "documentation," false "evidence," or the name of a real government official
...it is a SCAM!
Protect yourself and others from Social Security-related scams
Try to stay calm. When you feel pressured, threatened, or scared, do not provide anyone with money or personal information.
Hang up or ignore it. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, hang up or do not respond. Government employees will not threaten you, demand immediate payment, or try to gain your trust by sending pictures or documents.
Report Social Security-related scams. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email that mentions Social Security, ignore it and report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG). Do not be embarrassed if you share personal information or suffer a financial loss.
Get up-to-date information. Follow SSA OIG on Twitter @TheSSAOIG and Facebook @SSA Office of the Inspector General for the latest information on Social Security-related scams. Also, visit the Federal Trade Commission for information on other government scams.
Spread the word. Share your knowledge of Social Security-related scams. Post on social media using the hashtag #SlamtheScam to share your experience and warn others. Visit oig.ssa.gov/scam for more information. Please also share with your friends and family.
I encourage individuals to create their mySocialSecurity account and review their statements annually. Within your account, you can receive personal estimates of future benefits based on your real earnings, see your latest Social Security Statement, and review your earnings history. You can even request a replacement Social Security Card.