Every March, the U.S. Social Security Administration holds National Slam the Scam Day to help Americans recognize the changing tricks scammers use to steal money or personal information. Scammers constantly change their tactics and use new technology, but their main goal is always the same: to scare victims into quickly giving them money or sensitive details.

National Slam the Scam Day focuses on government impersonation scams, where fraudsters pretend to be officials from the Social Security Administration or other government agencies. They try to get personal information or money from you.

Here is some information to help you avoid common Social Security scams and identity theft. We explain the tactics criminals might use to access your Social Security account or personal details and provide tips to protect yourself. This information comes from the Social Security Administration.

Spotting Social Security Scams

The main message of National Slam the Scam Day is that most scammers contact their targets by phone. If you get a suspicious call or think someone is trying to scam you, stay calm and hang up.

During a call, text, or email, a scammer might:

• Claim to be from the Social Security Administration, saying your benefits will stop unless you pay.
• Pretend to be from the IRS, insisting you owe taxes.
• Demand your Medicare number to send you a new card.

Remember, this is a scam! Real government agencies will never ask for money or personal information through phone calls, emails, or texts.

If the SSA needs to reach you about your benefits, they will send a letter through regular U.S. Mail. They will only text you if you have agreed to receive updates, such as:

• When you choose to get notifications via text.
• When you need a verification code to log into your personal My Social Security account.

Warning Signs of a Scam

Scammers use various tricks or make threats that a real government worker would never do. Protect yourself by learning how to spot scams. Common Social Security scams include:

• Sending texts or emails with pictures of fake government IDs.
• Threatening to suspend your Social Security number.
• Scaring you with legal action or arrest unless you pay a fine.
• Requiring payment through gift cards, debit cards, wire transfers, digital currency, or cash in the mail.
• Offering higher benefits or assistance in exchange for payment.
• Sending official-looking letters or documents with your personal information.

Stay alert and protect yourself from scams!

Scammers are always getting better at tricking people to avoid being caught.

For more details on scams, visit SSA’s Protect Yourself from Scams.

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