What You Need to Know
Social Security scams are increasing across the United States, with fraudsters frequently impersonating government agencies to steal money and personal information. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there has been a “more than four-fold increase since 2020 in reports from older adults who say they lost $10,000 or more” to impersonation scams.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) remains one of the most commonly impersonated agencies, with the FTC receiving more than 330,000 complaints involving government imposter scams in 2025. While scammers often target older Americans, veterans, and individuals with limited English proficiency, everyone should remain vigilant against these types of fraud. Understanding how these scams work can help you protect your personal information and financial security.
How do these scams typically work?
Scammers often follow a predictable pattern that investigators refer to as the “four Ps” of fraud:
1. Pretend
The scammer claims to be from the Social Security Administration or another government agency.
2. Problem or Prize
They may say there is a problem with your Social Security number or benefits, or they may claim you have won a prize and are entitled to some type of payment.
3. Pressure
They tell you that you must act immediately to avoid penalties or loss of benefits.
4. Payment
The scammer tells you that you must pay. They often request this be done through hard-to-trace methods like gift cards or wire transfers.
Common Ways Scammers May Attempt to Contact You
Fraudsters will try to obtain your money or personal information by any means possible including:
- Phone calls with spoofed caller ID numbers
- Text messages or emails claiming to be from Social Security
- Messages through social media
- Letters or documents that may look official
What the Social Security Administration Will Not Do
The Social Security Administration emphasizes that there are warning signs when you might be dealing with a scammer. Social Security representatives will never threaten you with arrest or legal action, suspend your Social Security number, or claim that you must provide personal information or payment in order to receive an increase in your benefits. They will not pressure you to act immediately, demand secrecy, or threaten to seize your bank account. In addition, the agency will never ask for payment through gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash sent through the mail. They will not contact you through direct messages on social media and they will not offer to move your money into a “protected” account.
How Social Security Usually Contacts You
In most situations, the Social Security Administration communicates by mail. You can verify the legitimacy of a letter by calling 1-800-772-1213 or check your benefits and notices anytime with an online account at My Social Security.
You may receive a phone call from the SSA if you requested it, you recently applied for benefits, or you have an existing claim that needs updated information.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message
If you receive a call, text, or message claiming to be from Social Security:
- Do not respond or provide information
- Hang up immediately
- Do not send money
- Contact the Social Security Administration directly using official contact information
- Report the scam to the Office of the Inspector General
Scammers use fear and urgency to make victims act quickly. They use methods that can make their schemes appear legitimate. Taking a moment to pause, verify information, and avoid acting under pressure can help protect you and your financial security. If you would like more information, please contact us.
