Inspector General Warns Public about SSA Spoofing Scam

Another day, another scam.

Yesterday, the Acting Inspector General of Social Security warned the public of an ongoing spoofing scheme, where scammers falsely display the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) toll-free number.

People have reported that the caller claims to be an SSA employee. The caller reports they do not have all of the person’s personal information, such as their Social Security number, on file, or that the SSA needs additional information or the person’s benefits will be terminated.

Please keep in mind: Generally, the SSA will not contact citizens by phone. If an SSA employee is following up on information, such as a claim, they will NEVER threaten you for personal information, or promise a Social Security benefit increase or approval in exchange for information. If you receive a call in this regard, simply hang up.

Be extremely cautious, and avoid providing any personal information – especially your SSN or bank account numbers – to unknown people over the phone.

If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to work for the SSA, you should report it to the Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271, or online at https://oig.ssa.gov/report.