Social Security: What to do if you get a phone call about your SSN or account

As technology evolves, scammers are getting more innovative, and Social Security numbers and recipients are a major target.

Scammers will often use communication that the Social Security Administration would not normally use, which is the first red flag.

Whenever there is an issue with your SSN or account, the SSA will mail a letter to your home.

You will only be contacted by phone if you’ve requested it or have ongoing businesses with the SSA.

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What scammers may do that the Social Security Administration would not do

• Threaten you
• Suspend your SSN
• Demand payment immediately
• Ask for payment by gift card, cash, a pre-paid debit card, or a wire transfer
• Ask for your personal information like bank information
• Offer to increase your benefits

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This means if someone is calling you asking for gift cards, saying there is an issue or claim to be the SSA over the phone, they probably aren’t.

Be on the lookout for these things.

There are ways you can protect yourself and your family from Social Security scams

If you get a call you find questionable, you should hang up and report the call to the Office of the Inspector General.

Do not call the number you don’t recognize back.

Talk to a trusted person about what is going on to see if they feel the same way.

Do not be embarrassed to report a situation if you’re scammed.