Scammers are always on the prowl, looking for ways to take your hard-earned money. They use a number of methods to try to trick you into giving away personal information that will give them the ability to steal from you or outright shake you down.
Having knowledge of their tactics can help prevent them from taking advantage of you. As the Social Security Administration says, “People who know about scams are much less likely to fall victim to them.” Here’s a look at some of the approaches these unscrupulous criminals use and how you can fight back and help stop scammers from hurting other people.
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Never give out personal information
It doesn’t matter who is calling you, but it should go without saying that you should never give away personal information, especially not your Social Security number. The Social Security Administration will never call, text or email someone except if you have requested it, and then only in limited situations. Generally, the agency will only ever contact you by letter if you have ongoing business with the agency.
The Social Security Administration will not threaten or demand something in exchange for money
Social Security Administration staff “will never threaten you for information or promise a benefit in exchange for personal information or money.” Likewise, employees will never say that they will suspend your Social Security number or demand immediate payment. Agency staff will not ask for personal details or banking…
