New Threats to Watch: Social Security Scam Updates

Millions of people depend on social security benefits every day. It’s no surprise, then, that social security benefits are a hot target for scammers. There are many ways someone could scam a person into losing money, but social security beneficiaries, in particular, need to be mindful of a new, deceptive tactic. Social Security Disability Advocates USA is here to help you stay on the lookout.

How Do Scammers Operate?

Scammers contact victims through a variety of media, but there is one common thread among all scammers: They want to steal your information and money. It’s as simple as that. 

Typically, scammers may contact you saying they need you to verify some personal information, such as your phone number, credit card number, or even your social security number.

Additionally, some brazen scammers will threaten victims with arrest, suspension of social security number (which is a made up idea), cancellation of social security benefits, etc. The idea is to scare the victim into compliance. And such tactics often work.

Previously, many scammers operated by using robocalls, or recordings that instructed victims to give out identifying information. The calls included warnings claiming that the victim’s social security number was associated with criminal activity and needed to be validated to ensure a clean record. 

Now, however, scammers have stepped up their game and are employing new tactics to prey upon the innocent.

What Is the New Scam?

The new method is known as social security fake documents scams. That’s right. Scammers are now sending fake letters and emails to victims that appear to be from the Social Security Administration or from the Social Security Office of the Inspector General (OIG). 

Such documents may have copies of the official SSA logo and other markers that may mislead the victim to believe the document is legitimate. However, keep in mind that these documents may contain grammatical errors, and are therefore a sign of fraudulent undertakings.

Additionally, remember the following points so you can distinguish genuine SSA contact from scammers:

• The SSA will never threaten you if you refuse to pay a fine/fee
• The SSA will never inform you of a social security number suspension—such a phenomenon doesn’t exist
• A social security worker will never ask for your social security number over the phone
• Social security workers will never ask for debit card, credit card, or other payment information over the phone
• Social security workers will never promise a benefits increase in exchange for cooperating with payment

What Should I Do?

If you believe you are the victim of a social security fake documents scam, there are steps you can take to remedy the situation.

• If you believe a phone call is suspicious, HANG UP. Report the call to the genuine Social Security Administration number by calling 1 (800) 772-1213
• Do NOT click on any links in suspicious social security emails
• Never give away personal information in suspicious phone calls or emails
• Contact your local law enforcement agency and report the suspicious activity

Concerned About Social Security Fake Documents Scams?

Contact the SSA directly if you are concerned about a social security scam. If you have questions about filing for or appealing a denial for social security disability benefits, then contact us. We know that social security benefits are crucial for many Americans, and it’s natural to be concerned that you’re receiving the correct amount. 

At Social Security Disability Advocates USA, we offer free consultations. Call us anytime at (602) 952-3200, or chat with us online through our LiveChat feature or an online contact form.

This is attorney advertising. SSDA, LLC is a group of attorneys that pursues claims for Social Security Disability benefits on behalf of its clients against the Social Security Administration. SSDA, LLC is in no way a part of the Social Security Administration. Further, the information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, a representative-client relationship.