Happy Fraud Friday! We’re back with essential tips to keep you and your money safe from fraud. This week, let’s dive into a common scam involving the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you get a suspicious call from someone claiming to be with the SSA, here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
Spotting the Scam
Imagine this: your phone rings, and the caller ID says it’s the SSA. You’re not expecting a call from them but you pick up anyway. When you answer, the caller claims to be an SSA agent with an urgent warning. They tell you your Social Security number is linked to serious crimes – for example, money laundering or drug trafficking. The scammer may even go so far as to mention an arrest warrant and seizure of your bank accounts.
The big reveal is that this so-called SSA agent claims the only way to protect your money is to buy gold. Yes, you read that correctly. The scammer will then send someone to pick it up and keep it safe until your name is cleared.
Keep Calm
First off, take a deep breath. This is most definitely a scam. Legitimate government agencies will never demand money or personal items over the phone. If someone tells you to buy gold or withdraw cash to protect your money, they’re trying to rip you off.
Things to Remember
- As we know, scammers thrive on fear and urgency. So always try to remain level-headed in these situations and never make any hasty decisions.
- Verify the caller. Hang up and call the SSA directly at their verified phone number to confirm any claims.
- Never give out sensitive information to unsolicited callers.
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Just because someone uses the word “government” doesn’t mean it’s legitimate.
If you need assistance with Social Security-related issues, turn to reliable sources. Contact the SSA directly or visit their official website for accurate information.
At the end of the day, your safety is our priority. If you ever have questions or concerns about potential scams, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Guthrie County State Bank. Protecting your money and personal information is crucial.