How to Verify a Genuine Social Security Administration Call

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is a common target for scammers who pretend to be from the agency. These callers may claim to have important information that requires your immediate attention. However, you can protect yourself by knowing how to verify if the call is legitimate.

Understanding the Scam

The scammers trick you by asking for personal information or sensitive details, which can lead to identity theft and fraud. One common tactic is to pretend to be from the SSA and claim to have your Social Security number (SSN)

Protecting Your Identity

The best defense is to be cautious and knowledgeable. Here's what you need to know:

Never Confirm Your SSN Over the Phone

If someone calls you claiming to be from the Social Security Administration and asks for your SSN, this is almost certainly a scam. Social Security will never request your sensitive information over the phone. They will send letters instead, and these letters will include a mailing address for further correspondence.

Verify the Call Through Official Channels

Instead of trusting the caller, take the initiative to verify their identity. Here’s what you should do:

Ask for Details: When someone calls you and claims to be from the SSA, ask for their employee identification number and the name of their supervisor. Also, ask what office they work out of and how you can contact them in person.

Hang Up and Call First: After the call, hang up immediately and call the SSA directly at their official number. Do not use the number provided by the caller, but rather a verified one that can be found on the SSA website.

Check Your Credit Reports: If you suspect that you might have been contacted by a scammer, call and freeze your credit reports to prevent identity theft. This step is crucial to stop fraudulent activities before they occur.

Go to the SSA Office for Verification

Every city or county has a Social Security office. Visit the nearest office and speak with a representative to verify any concerns or issues you may have. This can provide you with the peace of mind that you need and allow you to take appropriate action.

Reporting Fraud

After verifying that the call was a scam, report it to the Social Security Administration. You can also report the fraud on the SSA website. By doing so, you contribute to the prevention of such scams and help protect others from falling victim to these misleading tactics.

Additional Tips to Stay Secure

Being proactive is key to defending yourself against identity theft. Here are a few more tips:

Use Identity Theft Coverage: Consider getting identity theft coverage to protect you in case of such scams.

Be Wary of Suspicious Emails: Always be cautious of emails asking for personal information. Legitimate organizations, including the SSA, will not ask for your sensitive information via email.

Remember, the Social Security Administration will never call you without your prompting. By following these guidelines, you can stay safe from potential scammers and protect your personal information.