A familiar Social Security scam is making the rounds. While these tactics have been used before, it’s important to refresh on them so you know what to look for.
The scheme can come by phone, email, or letter, and it usually involves some type of urgent need that will compel victims to respond. As detailed here, the scammers may say that your Social Security number has been stolen, you’re not receiving your full benefits, or even that your information needs to be confirmed.
Several tactics are used to make scams seem legitimate, including:
- Fake Social Security Administration (SSA) headers on emails and letters
- Spoofed phone numbers and credentials
- Well-prepared research on the victims
If you ever receive a call or communication you aren’t sure about, contact the SSA directly. You can verify whether the outreach is legitimate, and report it if it isn’t.
