Social Security and scam awareness

Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use targeted, sophisticated tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money.

If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email or call, do not respond. We want you to know how to identify a scammer and avoid becoming a victim. 

We will NEVER:

● Text or email images of an employee’s official government identification.

● Suspend your Social Security number.

● Threaten you with arrest or other legal action unless you immediately pay a fine or fee.

● Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency or cash by mail.

● Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment.

● Mail or email “official” letters or reports containing your personal information.

We only send text messages if you have opted in to receive texts from us and only in limited situations, including the following:

● When you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text.

● As part of our enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account.

If you owe money to us, we will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights. 

We encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams — and other Social Security fraud — to the OIG’s website at oig.ssa.gov/report. You can find more information about scams at www.ssa.gov/scams. Please share this information with your friends, family  and colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.

Ravi Gopaul is a Social Security public affairs specialist in New York City.