There are many scams going on all around the world and unfortunately, it has also reached Social Security. The government is warning Social Security recipients to aware of a new scam that is targeting retirees across the country. These scammers are sending out fake letters that look real. These letters look like that come from the Supreme Court and has forged signatures from Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Sonia Sotomayor.
As real as the letter looks, it’s fake. These scammers threaten that your Social Security account is under investigation, and you need to make a payment to avoid this.
How the Scam Works
According to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for the Social Security Administration (SSA), the scam letters use official-looking letterheads and seals to appear legitimate. Some even include fake case numbers or references to “legal orders.”
In the letter, the scammers state that your Social Security number is linked to criminal activity and your benefits may be suspended. They will have phone number and website links (if it’s an email) and ask you to follow the prompts to pay money.
If you decide to call, they pressurize you into sending money or giving out personal information.
What the Government Is Saying
The Supreme Court will never get in touch with you regarding your benefits and has no connection with Social Security accounts.
There is also no government department that will ever ask for money via mail or over the phone. If anyone claims that they are from the government and ask this, it’s a scam.
Why Retirees Are Being Targeted
Unfortunately, it’s the elder Americans who are targeted the most. This is simply because the scammers know that retirees rely on Social Security benefits as their primary source of income and they are afraid of losing their benefits.
The scammers will instil fear among retirees, and this will cause them to make hasty decisions, therefore it is so important to verify these letters or mails before making a decision.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Letter
If you get a letter that mentions your Social Security account, here are the steps you should take right away:
- Do not call any number listed or click on any links provided. Just take a moment and identify any suspicious message and verify this before responding. Don’t respond or call the number listed.
- Verify it directly with the SSA.
- Report the scam.
- Do not share any personal and banking information. If you shared any details with the scammer, contact your bank right away.
- Make your friends and family aware of the scam.
How To Spot a Fake
Watch out for these warning signs in letters or calls claiming to be from the SSA or the government:
- The letter or mail will state that your benefits are being investigated or will be suspended.
- It makes mention of the U.S. Supreme Court or a legal order, none of these have anything to do with Social Security
- They will ask for payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.
- You may find grammar mistakes and the letter demands payment in threatening manner.
The Bottom Line
Beneficiaries must remember that the SSA will never threaten you or demand payment to keep your Social Security account safe. If you happen to receive such letter, do not respond immediately, take a moment to analyse it and thereafter report it immediately.
Stay updated with verified information and follow the SSA website for updates regarding Social Security.
Stay alert and share the information with friends and family to make them aware of these scams as well.