All Social Security recipients have been warned by the government about a new and dangerous scam that is taking over Social Security. Criminals are pretending to be government officials and claiming to represent the U.S. Supreme Court, to trick people into giving away personal and financial information.
The Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General (SSA OIG) posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) this week saying:
“Warning: The SSA OIG alerts about a government imposter scam using fake Supreme Court letters! Don’t share personal info or money.”
Retirees and those who receive monthly Social Security payments are the primary targets of this fraud. Authorities are warning everyone to exercise extreme caution.
How the Scam Works
So, how exactly does this scam work? These criminals are sending out fake letters that look real. The use official government stamps and logos to make it seem convincing. On the letters, the criminals state that you are involved in a legal issue regarding your Social Security account.
These letters may ask that you call a certain number, click on a certain website or even verify your information to rectify the problem. Once you do this, they will try to access your personal information and potentially steal money.
They might ask for things like:
- Your Social Security number
- Bank account details
- Copies of your ID
- Or payment to avoid legal consequences
What Officials Are Saying
Inspector General Gail Ennis said the scammers are trying to scare people into acting quickly before they realize it’s fake.
It’s important to remember that the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Supreme Court will never contact you to threaten legal action or demand payment. They also will not suspend your benefits or arrest you for “Social Security” violations.
Should you receive one of these letters, please do not respond or call any phone numbers stipulated on the letter.
What To Do If You Get a Fake Letter
If you think you’ve received one of these scam letters or any suspicious message about your Social Security benefits, here’s what you should do:
- Never give out any personal information
Be sure to never share your Social Security number, banking details or ID with anyone who contacts out of the blue, make sure you verify first. - Never respond or call the phone numbers stipulated
Do not bother about the phone numbers or websites stipulated on the letter, it’s ought to scam you. - Report it immediately.
You can report scams to the Social Security Office of the Inspector General online. - Verify the letter with the SSA.
If you find that something feels suspicious, contact the SSA to verify. - Warn your family and friends.
Spread the message to your friends and family and warn them about these scams, you can help protect others.
Scammers Are Getting More Sophisticated
Scammers are become more difficult to identify, according to experts. To make their communications appear authentic, they are utilising sophisticated technology, phoney caller IDs, and believable documents.
The Bottom Line
Should you receive a letter from the of this nature that is threatening to take legal action, please remember that it is a scam. The government will never contact you to ask for money or demand an immediate payment.
Make you stay alert and always verify information before making a decision. Do not call or go onto any websites found on these letters as they are scams. Consult with the SSA if you are unsure.
Be sure to warn your family and friends as well, you can prevent scammers from exploiting them by spreading awareness and making sure others remain aware.