Beware of Social Security Scams: How to Protect Yourself from Fraudulent Activities

The Social Security Administration has issued a notice to recipients of Social Security Disability, Supplemental Security Income, and Retirement benefits to be aware of potential scams. There has been an increase in fraudulent activities targeting individuals through text messages, emails, phone calls, and social media.

Understanding Social Security Scams

The Social Security explained that scammers generally have the same tactics:

1. They pretend to be from an agency or organization you know to gain your trust.
2. They claim there is a problem or prize.
3. They pressure you to act immediately.
4. They tell you to pay in a specific way.

Common Tactics Used by Scammers

The Social Security Administration identified red flags that their employees NEVER do:

1. They won’t threaten you with arrest or legal action because you don’t agree to pay money immediately.
2. They won’t suspend your Social Security monthly payment.
3. They won’t claim to need personal information or payment to activate a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) or another benefit.
4. They won’t pressure you to take immediate action, including sharing personal information.
5. They won’t ask you to pay with gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash.
6. They won’t threaten to seize your bank account.
7. They won’t offer to move your money to a “protected” bank account.
8. They won’t demand secrecy.
9. They won’t direct message you on social media.

How to Report a Social Security Scam

If you observe any of these signs, you should report the scam to the Social Security Administration.

Contact Us for Assistance

Our office works tirelessly to help you get Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income benefits. You can call our office at (610) 446-3457 or click here to send an email to set up a consultation with one of our attorneys. We will explain the process, guide you and fight to get and keep the benefits you need.