Don't Fall for Scammers Calling to Warn You of a Problem With Your Social Security Number

Scammers are increasing efforts before the stressful holiday season with robocalls claiming there is a problem with your Social Security number

Be cautious about answering phone calls from numbers you do not recognize, including toll-free numbers. Scammers are using 800 numbers and robocalling victims with recorded messages that claim there are problems with Social Security numbers and threaten legal consequences. These criminals count on your curiosity when a toll-free number appears on your phone, hoping you will answer believing it is a legitimate business or government agency.

Social Security number at risk

The recorded message often claims to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and warns that your Social Security number is at risk. Only part of that is true. The SSA is not calling you, but your Social Security number could be at risk if you engage with the scammer on the other end of the line.

Do not interact

Many people do not answer calls even from acquaintances, so there is no reason to answer a call from an unknown number unless you are expecting it. Let calls you do not recognize go to voicemail. If it is important, you will get a message and can call back. Answering unknown calls confirms to scammers that your number is active, which can lead to more calls. Speaking, pressing buttons, or returning the call also confirms your number and increases your risk of identity theft. The safest choice is to avoid interacting entirely.

Numbers that appear on caller ID

This scam often spoofs the real SSA number, 800-772-1213, but victims report other numbers such as 800-871-6829. Do not answer these calls and do not call them back.

Safeguard your personal information

There is never a good reason to give personal information over the phone when you are not expecting the call and cannot confirm who is on the other end. Your Social Security number is highly sensitive and should remain private unless you are completing a verified application that requires it. If someone calls requesting this information, end the conversation immediately.

Your Social Security number has not been suspended

Scam calls often claim that your Social Security number has been suspended because of suspicious activity or criminal involvement. This is false. The scammer’s goal is to trick you into confirming your Social Security number in order to “reactivate” it, sometimes by adding pressure about preventing bank account seizures or canceling an arrest warrant. In reality, they want your personal information and often your money, usually in the form of gift cards. Never pay anyone with gift cards under any circumstances.

Social Security Administration will not call like this

The SSA will not call you to suspend your number or demand that you verify personal details in this way. If you receive such a call, hang up and file a complaint.

Call language

This scam has been circulating for some time, but the exact recordings vary. A common version being reported now is:

Call the real Social Security Administration

If you are concerned about possible issues, call the real SSA at 800-772-1213. Do not call back the number that left the suspicious message.

Red flags of phone scams

• Government agencies rarely call out of the blue. They generally begin contact with official letters.
• No legitimate business or agency will threaten you with arrest or fines over the phone. Scammers use fear to push quick decisions.
• Never give sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security number, to someone who requests it unexpectedly.
• No one should dictate a specific payment method, especially gift cards or wire transfers. Legitimate organizations accept secure, traceable payment methods.
• No legitimate representative will ask you to meet outside an official place of business.
• Multiple calls in a short time or pushy, urgent behavior should raise immediate suspicion. You should never be forced to decide or act instantly.