Have you received some sort of correspondence and it looks like it’s from the Social Security Administration (SSA)? Be sure to take a good hard look at it. Scammers are sending out fake letters that have a very close resemblance to official SSA and SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) letters or that of other government agencies. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), victims of government imposter scams reported losing nearly $509 million in 2022.
How Does a Government Imposter Scam Work?
Although the tactics vary, scams consistently contain red flags. Scammers will primarily use the phone to make contact, but they may also use email, text message, social media, or U.S. mail. Scammers want to gain your trust immediately so they will start the interaction by telling you they are from a well-known agency or organization. Then they will claim there is an unexpected problem or situation that can only be solved for a price that must be paid by cash, gift cards or a wire transfer. This puts pressure on you to act immediately, but don’t!
How Can I Protect Myself?
- Use caution when you receive an odd and unexpected call or message
- Hang up the phone call or ignore and delete the message
- Block the number that unexpectedly contacted you
- Do not click on any links or open attachments in an electronic message
- Don’t transfer money, send cash, or purchase gift cards to pay someone you don’t know
- Don’t provide your personal or financial information over the phone, especially to someone claiming to be from the government
- Educate yourself so you are aware of these common scams
What Should I Do if I Fall Victim?
- Immediately cut off communication with the scammer
- Notify your financial institution so they can help safeguard your accounts
- Contact your local law enforcement to file a police report
- File a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Report Social Security-related scams to the SSA OIG
- Report all scams to the Federal Trade Commission
Remember, government agencies will not email, call, or text you unless you reach out to them first. If you do with speak with someone from a reputable agency, they will not ask for personal information by email, phone or text. No government agency will offer or demand grants or money. They will mail you an official notice and offer legitimate payment options that do not include a prepaid gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or a payment app.
For more tips to help protect your personal and financial information, check out our other blogs about Privacy & Cybersecurity. If you think you may have fallen victim to a government imposter scam, we’re here to help. Contact us at 866-224-1379.