There's a new scam you need to be aware of: calls that look like they are coming from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Scammers are spoofing the SSA's 1-800 customer service number to try and get your personal information. Spoofing means that the person can call from anywhere but make your caller ID show a different number. In this case, the caller ID looks like the SSA customer service number.
Be on the lookout because these scam calls are happening across the nation. The caller ID will show 1-800-772-1213. The caller will say that he works for the Social Security Administration and needs your personal information (like your social security number) to increase, or even continue, your benefit payments. Although the caller ID shows the SSA's real phone number, it is NOT the Social Security Administration calling. Scammers are spoofing this number to make the call look real but it is fake.
How can you be sure it is a scammer? Remember that real SSA employees will never threaten to discontinue your benefits to get personal information. They also will not promise to increase your benefits in exchange for information. If anyone tries this, it is a scam. If you are not sure if it is a scammer, hang up and call SSA directly. If you dial the SSA customer service number (1-800-772-1213) directly, you will know exactly who you are speaking with. Do not trust the caller ID.
If you get a scam call, hang up immediately and report it to the SSA's Office of Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271 or at their website. You can also report these calls to the Federal Trade Commission. If you think someone has misused your personal information, go to IdentityTheft.gov to report identity theft and find out what steps to take.
For more tips, check out Stopping Unsolicited Calls, Emails, and Mail.
Source: Federal Trade Commission "Hang Up On Spoofed SSA Calls"
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