Social Security employees may contact individuals by phone for official business purposes. However, understanding when these calls are legitimate and recognizing potential scams is crucial. Scammers often impersonate government officials, attempting to steal personal information and money. Here’s what you need to know about genuine Social Security calls and how to protect yourself from fraud.
When Social Security may call you
In most cases, the Social Security Administration (SSA) communicates with individuals via mail. However, there are certain situations where they may contact you by phone. You can expect a legitimate call from Social Security if you:
Recently Applied for Benefits – If you have submitted an application for Social Security benefits, an SSA representative may call to request additional information.
Are Receiving Benefits and Need to Update Your Record – If there is an issue with your Social Security payments or records, SSA may call to verify or update your information.
Have Requested a Call – If you have contacted SSA and asked for a callback, they may reach out to you at the agreed-upon time.
It’s important to note that SSA will typically send a written notice before calling, especially if there is an issue with your Social Security number or benefits.
What Social Security will never do
Scammers often pose as Social Security employees to trick people into providing sensitive information or making payments. To protect yourself, remember that the SSA will never:
- Threaten You with Arrest or Legal Action – SSA does not issue threats over the phone. If someone calls claiming you will be arrested unless you take immediate action, it is a scam.
- Suspend Your Social Security Number (SSN) – Your SSN cannot be suspended, frozen, or revoked. Anyone claiming otherwise is attempting to deceive you.
- Demand Immediate Payment – SSA will never pressure you to make an urgent payment over the phone.
- Require Payment in Unusual Ways – You will never be asked to pay with cash, gift cards, prepaid debit cards, internet currency, or wire transfers.
- Ask for Gift Card Numbers or Cash by Mail – No government agency will request gift card numbers or ask you to send cash through the mail.
- Request Banking Information for Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) – SSA automatically applies COLA increases to benefits. They will not ask for banking details to process these adjustments.
If a caller asks for any of the above, it is a scam. Hang up immediately and do not provide any information.
Recognizing Social Security scams
Scammers constantly evolve their tactics to deceive people. Some common fraud schemes involve:
Claiming Your Identity Has Been Stolen – Fraudsters may tell you that your SSN has been linked to criminal activity and that you need to verify your information.
Pretending There Is an Issue with Your Benefits – They might claim there is a problem with your payments and ask for personal details to “fix” the issue.
Using High-Pressure Tactics – Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency, telling you that immediate action is required to avoid penalties.
If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from Social Security, do not engage with them. The safest course of action is to hang up.
How to protect yourself
To safeguard your personal information and finances, follow these steps:
Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls – If you didn’t request a call from SSA, be cautious of anyone claiming to be from the agency.
Do Not Share Personal Information – Never provide your SSN, bank account details, or other sensitive data over the phone.
Verify the Caller – If you are unsure whether a call is legitimate, hang up and contact SSA directly at their official phone number.
Report Suspicious Calls – If you believe you have received a scam call, report it to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG).
Reporting Social Security scams
If you receive a questionable call, do not engage with the scammer. Instead, follow these steps:
1. Hang up immediately – Do not press any buttons or provide any information.
2. Report the call – Visit the SSA OIG website to report the scam and help prevent others from falling victim.
3. Warn others – Inform friends and family about the scam so they can avoid similar fraud attempts.
For more information on Social Security scams and how to protect yourself, visit the official Protect Yourself from Social Security Scams page or the Scam Alert | Office of the Inspector General website.
By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to Social Security scams.
