"...The last thing you need in the middle of a global health crisis is to fall victim to a financial scam. But unfortunately, criminals are already capitalizing on the current situation by contacting seniors by phone, claiming to be SSA representatives warning of benefit suspensions.
To prevent these so-called suspensions, recipients are being asked to provide personal information, like their Social Security numbers or bank account details, which could then be used to steal their benefits or wreak other forms of financial havoc...."
To avoid falling victim to a scam, know that the SSA will never randomly call you asking for personal information, so if you receive such a call, hang up and report it here to help prevent other seniors from being scammed.
Scams also occur by a suspicious letter in the mail, a text message, or an email asking you to provide personal information or send money. Don't be a victim.
Social Security will never:
- threaten you with benefit suspension, arrest, or other legal action unless you pay a fine or fee;
- promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment;
- require payment by retail gift card, cash, wire transfer, internet currency, or prepaid debit card;
- demand secrecy from you in handling a Social Security-related problem; or
- send official letters or reports containing personally identifiable information via email.
Source: The Motley Fool and OIG SSA
