Don't Fall for SSN Scams: Tips to Keep Your Identity Secure

Your Social Security number (SSN) is one of the most important pieces of personal information you have, making it a prime target for scammers. Fraudsters are always on the lookout for ways to steal SSNs, often going as far as impersonating government officials to convince you that your number is being used to commit crimes. If you've received one of these alarming calls, you're not alone—scammers commonly use fear tactics to gain access to personal details. To help you stay protected, we’ve compiled a list of common SSN scams and the red flags you should be aware of. Here's what you need to know to keep your identity safe.

Social Security Impersonation Scams

• What Happens: Scammers impersonate Social Security Administration (SSA) officials, claiming your SSN has been suspended, involved in a crime, or used fraudulently. They may threaten arrest or legal action if you don't provide personal information or make immediate payments.
• Red Flag: The SSA will never threaten you or demand immediate payments, especially via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

Identity Theft Scams

• What Happens: Scammers steal your SSN to open fraudulent credit accounts, take out loans, file false tax returns, or commit other crimes. They may contact you pretending to be from legitimate agencies and try to gather even more personal information.
• Red Flag: Be suspicious of unsolicited calls asking for your SSN or other personal information, even if the caller claims to be from a government agency.

Tax Scams

• What Happens: Scammers use stolen SSNs to file fake tax returns and collect refunds. You may only realize this happened when the IRS rejects your legitimate tax return or sends a notice regarding unfiled returns or owed taxes.
• Red Flag: The IRS primarily communicates by mail, not phone, about tax issues.

Bank and Credit Fraud

• What Happens: With your SSN, scammers can apply for credit cards, loans, or open bank accounts in your name, accumulating debt and damaging your credit score.
• Red Flag: Monitor your credit report regularly and be cautious of any new accounts or activities that you don’t recognize.

Unemployment Benefits Fraud

• What Happens: Scammers use your SSN to file fraudulent claims for unemployment benefits, which can cause problems when you try to claim benefits or file your taxes.
• Red Flag: Unexpected notices from unemployment agencies about benefits you didn’t apply for are major warning signs.

What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call:

• Do not give out your SSN or personal information.
• Hang up immediately and report the call to the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov.
• Contact a credit bureau to place a fraud alert on your credit report.
• Monitor your credit and bank statements for any suspicious activity.

It's also a good idea to report Social Security scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) as well. To do that, visit the?FTC’s Identity Theft Website at identitytheft.gov. This is the main resource for reporting identity theft, including Social Security number fraud.

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