The Social Security Administration will never threaten, scare, or pressure you to take immediate action. The following are examples of scams:
* Threatens to suspend your Social Security number, even if they have part or all of your Social Security number
* Warns of arrest or legal action
* Demands or requests immediate payment
* Requires payment by gift card, prepaid debit card, internet currency, or by mailing cash
* Pressures you for personal information
* Requests secrecy
* Threatens to seize your bank account
* Promises to increase your Social Security benefit
* Tries to gain your trust by providing fake “documentation,” false “evidence,” or the name of a real government official
Protect yourself and others from Social Security-related scams
* Try to stay calm. Do not provide anyone with money or personal information when you feel pressured, threatened, or scared.
* Hang up or ignore it. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, hang up or do not respond. Government employees will not threaten you, demand immediate payment, or try to gain your trust by sending you pictures or documents.
* Report Social Security-related scams. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email that mentions Social Security, ignore it and report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG). Do not be embarrassed if you shared personal information or suffered a financial loss. Scammers are known for being extremely persuasive.