Beware of phone calls, text messages, emails, and letters that appear to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Scammers impersonate the SSA to try to get you to provide personal details or pay them money. The messages that you receive may look legitimate. Some of the ways to tell that it could be a scam include:
It can be scary to get this kind of message, from what you think is a trusted organization. That is what the scammers want. It is really important to pause, take a deep breath, and verify if the message is real or a scam.
Please note, you may receive legitimate calls or emails and text messages from the Social Security Administration, particularly if you have opted in communication via these channels. To protect yourself, always search for their number on the Social Security Administration website and call them back, that way you know that you are speaking to a representative of the SSA.
Not every phone call from a government agency is legit, in fact, the majority of calls that have a "Social Security Administration" caller ID are actually from scammers.
Whether it's the IRS, Social Security office, or a relative, be careful with anyone asking for payment via an Apple gift card—it's likely a scam.
If you receive a letter from the SSA or IRS, be sure to check for red flags of a scam before you send back any information—it could be a phishing attempt.
When a government official contacts you, you tend to take it seriously. But beware, imposters are everywhere and trying to steal your information.
If you've received a locked debit card text message from Citibank, it's likely a scam. Don't click on the link and delete the text message.
If you receive a text message from Chase Bank, don't click on any links or call the phone number listed—it could be a scam designed to steal your information and money.
If you receive a text message from American Express, don't click on any links or call the phone number listed—it could be a scam designed to steal your information and money.
If you received a text message from Citizens Bank asking for personal information such as your password or login credentials, it may be from a scammer trying to steal your money.
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With thousands of fake Social Security calls made every month, chances are these scammers have targeted you at one point or another.
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