AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – As the holidays and winter weather approach the High Plains, and circumstances around Social Security and student loans have been actively shifting, a range of often-seen scamming topics and strategies may become more prevalent in the coming weeks. Officials from the Amarillo Police Department, the federal government, and other institutions have offered reminders and extra information that could be used to avoid common scams.
Social Security
As announced by the Social Security Administration on Thursday, recipients will soon see an annual cost-of-living adjustment of nearly 9% starting next year. With the large increase for beneficiaries, coupled with varied dates for when the change will be in effect and a decrease in Medicare premiums, some may be seeking more information or specific instructions from the administration to adjust.
While the Social Security Administration may call or text about programs and services, officials noted that the administration will never ask for a return call to an unknown number or ask for personal information. The administration will never threaten to suspend a person’s Social Security number, promise an increase in benefits in exchange for money, or ask people to send gift cards, pre-paid debit cards, wire transfers, Internet currency, cryptocurrency, or cash through the mail.
The administration advised…
