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Telegram Be aware of these four signs of social security scams to protect your personal identity. Kate Kleinert is a widow from close to Philadelphia and featured on the latest episode of SSA Talks. She uses the story of how she lost the last of her life savings in $39,000 as part of a romantic scam to warn others.
She is a senior public affairs specialist for Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General, OIG. This episode offers guidance from Rebecca Rose.
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Typical scammers use the 4 Ps:
- They pretend to be Social Security or another trusted organization.
- They make it sound like a challenge or an offer.
- They tell you to take action now.
- They identify the way you will pay, whether it is bitcoin, wire transfers, or gift cards.
Rebecca also provides advice on how to safeguard your private data. How to notify OIG of scams involving Social Security is covered in the segment’s conclusion.
How to avoid a scam:
- Keep your cool. Speak with a trusted person.
- Either disregard the message or hang up. NEVER click on attachments or links.
- Keep your money safe. Thieves will insist that you pay using a method that is difficult to trace, including sending cash, using a gift card, prepaid debit card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or money transfer.
- Keep your private data safe. Don’t trust someone you didn’t approach.
- Spread the word. Share with others instances of Social Security fraud. Share your story and raise awareness with the hashtag #SlamtheScam on social media. Find out more at ssa.gov/scam. Encourage your friends and family to do the same.
What to do if you suspect your Social Security number has been stolenÂ
Your SSN and other personal data can be used by identity thieves to open utility and phone accounts in your name, as well as to apply for loans and credit cards. If you suspect that your data has been compromised and you may be an identity theft victim, you can:
- To file a report and receive a recovery plan, go to IdentityTheft.gov. The Federal Trade Commission, the country’s consumer protection organization, is in charge of IdentityTheft.gov, a one-stop shop. An alternative number is 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).
- In the event that issues later develop, file a police report and preserve a copy for your records.
- The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) accepts online reports at ic3.gov. Receiving, analysing, and forwarding cybercrime complaints to law enforcement and regulatory bodies is its goal.
- A credit freeze, fraud alert, or both may be added to your credit record once you notify one of the three main credit bureaus. Calling one company is necessary for the other companies to get in touch.
- At 1-800-525-6285, Equifax.
- At 1-888-397-3742, call Experian.
- To obtain information at TransUnion, please dial 1-800-680-7289.
- Check your credit report for errors often. You are able to access free reports via online at AnnualCreditReport.com.
- If someone tries filing a tax return by your Social Security number for an early refund, reach the IRS. Look to the Identity Theft Central section, or call 1-800-908-4490.
Listen to Episode 5 on our SSA Talks page, which also has links to related resources and a transcript. Don’t forget to subscribe so you receive notifications about next episodes.
Share with your friends and family the person who would find value in Kate Kleinert’s experience.
FAQs
What is a Social Security scam?
Fraudulent attempts to get personal information by posing as the Social Security Administration (SSA) in order to fool victims into divulging sensitive information are known as Social Security scams.
What are the signs of a Social Security scam?
Unwanted phone calls or emails, requests for private information, threats of imprisonment or suspension, and offers to settle disputes in return for cash or information are all warning signs.
How can I protect my personal identity from Social Security scams?
Use two-factor authentication, be wary of unsolicited messages, never divulge your Social Security number, and notify the Social Security Administration of any questionable activity.