March 6 is National Slam the Scam Day, when the Social Security Administration focuses on stopping scammers from stealing people’s money and personal information.
We need to protect our loved ones and people in the community by learning about the latest scams. Information can empower people to quickly recognize a scam. Signs of a scam include:
• An unexpected problem or offer of a prize or benefit increase,
• Pressure to act immediately, and
• A request for an unusual payment like cryptocurrency, gift cards, gold bars, and wire transfers, even with the promise of keeping your money “safe.”
We’re advised to report scams as soon as possible. Victims shouldn’t be embarrassed if they shared personal information or suffered a financial loss. We are all vulnerable. Report Social Security-related scams to the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (OIG).
Security Update Tool scam
On Feb. 25, the OIG issued its latest email scam alert, warning, an “Official Notice” to download your Social Security statement is NOT from the SSA. The “Security Update Tool” is a scam. Here’s what the OIG posted:
THIS EMAIL IS NOT FROM SSA. This version of the scam email reads: “Official Notice: Download Your Social Security Statement Now. -ID : 70S802”.
This is NOT an official SSA notice, nor is it from an official government email address. It does NOT have “.gov” as part of the sender’s address.
Government agencies always have “.gov” as part of their official email address.
The email suggests you open, download and install a tool to your computer or device. DO NOT DOWNLOAD THE APP OR CLICK THE LINK MARKED: SSA Support Center Download. This tool is not from SSA and will compromise your personal data and likely damage your computer system once you allow access.
SSA OIG is advising you to always be cautious of responding to or clicking links in unsolicited emails that appear to be from an official government entity, such as SSA, or another federal agency.
Other scam alerts
Another scam tactic tries to lure potential retirement applicants to a fake website with an email that appears to be from the SSA. Or, Social Security recipients are told they need to act to receive their cost of living adjustment (COLA). Remember, government agencies always have “.gov” as part of their official email address. And COLAs are automatic.
What to do
This information can apply to more than Social Security. There are plenty of scams out there. Be cautious of responding to unsolicited emails that appear to be from an official agency. Delete them. Don’t click on links or respond to any text, email, phone call or letter that has the characteristics of a scam. (See warning signs at ssa.gov/scam.)
If you are a victim, stop talking to the scammer, notify financial institutions and file a police report. You can report Social Security-releated scams to SSA OIG (oig.ssa.gov) and report other scams to the Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov).
If you lost money, file a complaint with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov).
Keep financial transaction information and a record of all communications with the scammer.
Scams go back as far as humanity. In Genesis chapter 27, Jacob impersonates his older twin brother to trick his own father. Isaac meant to bestow his blessing on his firstborn, Esau, but was too blind to see he was being tricked. The voice was almost a giveaway, but the rest of the details were convincing enough for the scam to work.
Since Thursday is National Slam the Scam Day and this is National Consumer Protection Week, this is a good time to shine a spotlight on deceptive tactics employed by scammers. With heightened awareness, our community will be safer.
