Watch Out for Social Security Scammers
Just a bit ago I received a robocall claiming to be from the Social Security Administration. The number on my caller ID was 800-772-1213. This is the real Social Security Administration phone number. The scammers spoofed the number to make it look as if they were calling from the SSA.
When I answered, I heard a robotic voice. It claimed to be calling from Social Security. The voice informed me that due to suspicious activity, my Social Security and assets would be suspended. It told me that I needed to call right away.
At this point, realizing what was going on, I hung up.
This scam has become common over the past several months. Many sites have written warnings about it:
Don’t Give Out Your Social Security Number
Now here’s the thing. I actually speak and write on scams. I am well aware of them. And this one still scared me for a moment. I can imagine all sorts of people freaking out, calling the number and providing information that will allow the scammers to cause them serious harm.
I bet if I had called the number, I would have been asked to confirm my identity by providing my Social Security Number. The scammers also would have asked me to provide other information such as my name, address, birth date, etc.
By the time we were done, these crooks would have had enough information to take out loans, credit cards, you name it, in my name. They may or may not have asked for money.
Social Security Administration Writes Letters
As with the IRS, and the scammers related to your taxes, the SSA does not call to inform you it is suspending your Social Security. Nor does SSA use robocalls. The Social Security Administration sends letters if you have a problem.
If you get a call like this, just hang up. Do not speak to anyone. If you are concerned there is something wrong with your Social Security, contact SSA directly. You can find the information on the SSA website. SSA’s phone number is 1-800-772-1213.
Report SSA Scam Calls
You can help investigators work on this problem by reporting these scam robocalls. Report online at https://oig.ssa.gov/report or https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/
You can also call the office of the Inspector General at 800-269-0271.