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Featured Article Quoted by the Social Security Administration
These scams are designed to deceive individuals into providing sensitive personal information or money under false pretenses. Scammers often pose as Social Security employees, using a variety of tactics to create panic and pressure their victims into complying with fraudulent demands.
The Social Security Administration warns, “Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email, or call, do not respond.” This simple yet powerful advice serves as the first line of defense against fraudsters.
One of the most critical steps in preventing fraud is recognizing the warning signs.
Understanding how the SSA legitimately communicates with the public can help you distinguish between real and fraudulent messages. The SSA clarifies, “We only send text messages in limited situations, including: When you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text [and] as part of our enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account.”
Additionally, if you owe money to Social Security, “we will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights.” The SSA does not demand payment through aggressive phone calls or suspicious online requests.
The SSA does contact the public by phone, but only in specific circumstances. According to the SSA, “Ordinarily, the agency calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit, are already receiving payments and require an update to their record or have requested a phone call from the agency.” If there’s an issue with your Social Security number or record, “Social Security will typically mail a letter.” These official procedures ensure that sensitive information is communicated securely and transparently.
Scammers prey on individuals who may not be aware of their tactics. By sharing this information, you can help protect your friends, family, and colleagues from becoming victims. The SSA encourages, “Please share this information with your friends, family, and colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.”
Fraudulent activities can impact anyone, but with increased awareness and vigilance, we can reduce the number of people falling prey to these schemes. Encourage your loved ones to stay informed and direct them to resources like www.ssa.gov/scam for the most up-to-date information on how to identify and prevent scams.
Scammers continue to evolve their tactics, but by staying informed and aware, you can avoid falling victim to Social Security fraud.
By recognizing these red flags and understanding how the SSA genuinely operates, you can protect yourself and your community. Always verify suspicious communications through official channels, and don’t hesitate to report any fraudulent activity.
Stay vigilant, stay safe, and share this knowledge to help others protect themselves from Social Security imposter scams.