SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS DO NOT GET SUSPENDED: IT'S A SCAM CALL

Here is a common scam where criminals try to trick you into giving them your personal information.

You get a call from someone identifying as an employee of the Social Security Administration. You are told that your Social Security number has been suspended because of some fraudulent or criminal activity. You need to call a number or provide some information to clear it up. Then, they will ask for your Social Security number, address, date of birth, or even banking information.

Social Security numbers are never suspended.

The Social Security Administration confirms that they NEVER suspend a Social Security number. They do not call people asking them to confirm or reinstate their number. This is always (always) a scam trying to steal your information.

When you get this type of call, just hang up. Don't talk to the scammer. These people are skilled at getting information out of you, even if you recognize the scam. Hang up immediately.

If you have any question about your Social Security account, benefits or anything else, look up the number of your local Social Security office and call them using that number. Do NOT call any number given to you by an unknown caller.

And for heaven's sake, don't pay these callers or provide them with a gift card, credit card or debit card number. They are trying to rob you! If they threaten you with arrest, fines or other penalties, hang up immediately. Legitimate Social Security employees will NEVER do this.