BEWARE OF SCAM CALLERS

Scam callers make thousands of calls per day to steal money and identities. They say they are calling from the Social Security Administration. Common scams may include telling you that there's a problem with your Social Security account, your Social Security number has been suspended, or you are entitled to more benefits. These callers are never from Social Security.

How do you identify scam calls? First, realize that the Social Security Administration never makes phone calls unless you have have active business with them, such as a new disability application, etc. They always use the US mail, not telephone calls, to deal with any issues. So a telephone call from "Social Security" is always suspect. Social Security will NEVER do any of the following:

• “Threaten you.

• Suspend your Social Security number.

• Demand an immediate payment from you.

• Threaten to arrest you or take other legal action against you.

• Require payment by cash, gift card, pre-paid debit card, or wire transfer.

• Ask for gift card numbers over the phone or to wire or mail cash.”

Be wary of anyone who asks for personal information or claims there’s a problem with your Social Security account. SOCIAL SECURITY NEVER SUSPEND SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS--EVER.

If you feel you are about to be the victim of any SSI scams, do the following:

• Hang up if someone suspicious has called you. Give no information.

• Don’t click on links that you receive from someone you don’t know.

• Do not return any communications that you receive from someone you don’t know.

• Ask a trusted friend or family member for advice.

• Call your local Social Security office and ask about the communication you received.

Finally, you cannot trust your caller ID. Professional scammers have a way to hijack phone numbers to fool your caller ID into displaying "Social Security Administration" on your phone. Many of these calls originate from foreign countries. The goal is to get you to send money or to steal your personal identification. Best advice: hang up immediately.