If you’ve ever answered the phone or received a voicemail threatening you with legal action for overpayments of Social Security or requesting you pay them in an unusual way, you’ve already had a brush with a scammer. Scams are big business to the criminals who engage in them for the sad reason that they work. Here are tips from experts on how to recognize a scam Social Security call and also what to do (or not do).
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Threats
Whether you get a live phone call or a voice message, “Threatening phone calls that say your Social Security number or benefits are in jeopardy are scams,” said Keith Mint, founder of Minted Empire. “In the event that you fail to pay a fine or fee, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will never threaten you with arrest.”
Email Requests
Another sign of potential fraud is an email that appears to be from the SSA.
“The SSA will send you a letter with payment instructions and alternatives if you need to make a payment by mail,” Mint said. “Government fees and fines should never be paid with store gift cards, internet currency or wire transfers. Scammers choose this kind of payment since it’s tough to track them down and get their money back.”
Additionally, you can often spot scam emails…
