Federal authorities are warning the public about a “widespread phone scam” involving people pretending to be government officials who call residents and make false claims about Social Security-related problems in an effort to steal money.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District and the Social Security Office of the Inspector General advise people who receive the calls to “Slam the scam” by immediately hanging up.
Officials warn that the imposters who call may threaten people with arrest or legal action if they do not pay a debt, fine or fee. The scammers also may tell people they call that their Social Security number has been suspended and offer to increase benefits or resolve identity theft problems in exchange for payment, according to a written statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The predators may instruct people to buy gift cards or prepaid debit cards to pay the supposed debt. Or, the scammers may demand people send payment by wire transfer, over the internet or by mail, the report said.
Scammers may tell the people they call to keep the alleged Social Security-related problem a secret, even advising people to make up a story to tell friends, family members, or store or bank employees who inquire about the payments.
Some scammers will send unsolicited text messages or emails about an alleged Social Security problem, some containing personal information to convince people they are Social Security officials.
“Hard-working taxpayers should be cautious if they receive an unsolicited call from the government and don’t recognize the problem or issue they’re calling about,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in the statement.
Federal officials advise anyone who receives a strange call, text or email about a purported Social Security problem to avoid giving any personally identifying information. They also recommend discussing the call or other communication with trusted friends and family members.
“If you ever owe money to Social Security, the agency will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights,” the report said.
People may report Social Security scams online at oig.ssa.gov and other scams at ftc.gov/complaint.