Social Security Scams: Don't Let a Fake Government Call Steal Your Identity

🚩 Watch for These Red Flags

Be suspicious if someone claiming to be from Social Security threatens arrest, demands immediate payment, asks for gift cards or cryptocurrency, requests your Social Security number or banking information unexpectedly, or pressures you to "protect" your money by transferring it somewhere else. Scammers may also use caller-ID spoofing, official-looking documents, or stolen personal information to make their story sound legitimate.

🛡️ Protect Yourself

Don't panic and don't act immediately. Do not provide personal or financial information to an unexpected caller. Instead, independently visit the official Social Security website or contact the agency using contact information you obtain yourself. Remember that caller ID, an official-looking email, or a person who knows some of your personal information does not prove that the person is legitimate. Never send money because someone threatens you with arrest or claims your Social Security benefits will immediately be suspended.

🚨 VEMRE REMINDER

Government agencies don't need you to panic to prove your identity. Stop, verify the person contacting you, and independently confirm the claim before providing information or sending money.

THINK BEFORE YOU RESPOND.
VERIFY BEFORE YOU TRUST.
PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY.