Politics & Government

Be Alert For Social Services Scam

Con artists are hacking into My Social Security accounts and redirecting funds.

Written by Aaron Boyd

In a recent scam being perpetrated in the area, identity thieves obtain personal information about Social Security beneficiaries and attempt to open a My Social Security online account on SSA's website.

If successful, they redirect the beneficiary's direct deposit benefits to an account controlled by the thief. This type of crime serves as a reminder to protect your personal information as you would any other thing of value.

How will I know if this happens?

If you receive information from SSA indicating that you have opened a My Social Security account and you did not open an account, contact Social Security so that appropriate action may be taken and the matter can be referred to the Office of the Inspector General.

You can do so by visiting or calling a local SSA office or calling SSA's toll free customer service at 1-800-772-1213.

How can I protect myself?

Identity thieves obtain personal information in any number of ways. They may pose as government officials in an attempt to convince people to provide personal and financial information. They may also claim that you have won a lottery or other prize, but you must provide personal information or even send money to pay fees, taxes or other expenses before you claim your winnings.

To help prevent this type of fraud, the Inspector General recommends that you:

  • never provide your personal information when receiving unsolicited calls or contacts
  • never agree to accept pre-paid debit cards or credit cards in another person's name
  • never agree to send or wire money to an unknown person
  • always contact your local SSA office if you receive a call from a person claiming to be from SSA, and that person asks you to provide your Social Security number or other information.

If you establish a My Social Security online account first, you eliminate the risk of a thief opening a new account in your name.

Go to www.SSA.gov and click on the My Social Security tab, followed by clicking Create an Account. You will need a valid email address, your Social Security number, a U.S. mailing address and be at least 18 years of age.



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