Your Social Security number (SSN) is one of the most crucial pieces of personal information you have. The Social Security Administration (SSA) distributes Social Security payments to you using your unique nine-digit number, which is also necessary when applying for employment or enrolling in federal government programs. Due to its significance, safeguarding your Social Security number is critical.
However, Social Security numbers make you vulnerable to identity theft, and a thief can exploit your SSN for various illegal objectives. In addition to attempting to deceive the SSA, an identity thief can apply for jobs in your name, empty your bank accounts, start an account in your name, sign up for false credit cards, make purchases, conduct tax fraud, and seek medical help.
According to AARP, about 312,000 Social Security frauds were recorded during the five years ending December 31, 2021, with total losses exceeding $95 million. As per AJ Monaco, a special agent in charge of the big case team at the SSA’s Office of Inspector General, Social Security imposters have stolen up to $1 million from victims.
Scammers are deceptive, but they may also be convincing and appear “official,” so you must remain vigilant. Be cautious if you receive unsolicited communication from someone claiming to work for the SSA, someone requesting your Social Security number, or someone threatening you with consequences such as suspension of your SSN, loss of benefits, or arrest if you don’t make an immediate payment – these are common indicators of a scam. The SSA won’t phone, email, or text you unless you have already communicated with the agency.
Impersonators frequently contact about a reported problem with your Social Security number, alleging that it has been related to a crime. They’ll ask you to validate your phone number so that it may be reactivated or replaced for a charge. Or a call may arrive with good news in the shape of a higher benefit in exchange for your private information and SSN (and possibly a small fee). If you provide them with your phone number, a scammer might quickly steal your account and reroute your benefits.
The SSA-OIG website provides nine warning indications of a Social Security fraud. If someone calls, emails, texts, or messages you on social media, assume it’s a scam:
1. Threatens to suspend your SSN, even if they know a part or all of it
2. Warns of arrest or legal action
3. Demands or asks for urgent payment
4. Requires payment using a gift card, prepaid debit card, electronic currency, or by sending cash.
5. Demands personal information from you
6. Requests confidentiality
7. Threatens your bank account with seizure
8. Guarantees that your Social Security benefit will increase
9. Attempts to earn your trust by presenting fake documents, false proof, or the name of a legitimate government person.
If you have had communication with a Social Security impersonator or suspect someone of perpetrating fraud or abuse, please report it to the SSA-OIG complaint submission portal, which you may find here. Monaco also advises keeping a “security attitude” and sharing scam information with individuals you know to help them protect themselves.
Contact Information:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 6023128944
Bio:
Mike was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 13, 1946. He was brought up in the
suburb of Skokie on Chicago’s northwest side and graduated from Niles Township (
East ) high school In 1964. Two years later he joined the US Air Force in November of
1966. After 2 years of Intense training he volunteered for Viet Nam and was sent to
Bien Hoa Airbase, which was 25 miles from Saigon, the nation’s capital. He
volunteered for a number of especially dangerous missions on his days off, such as
flying as a door gunner on a US Army helicopter and as a technical assistant on a
psychological operation on an Air Force O-1E observation aircraft. Capping off his
impressive accomplishments was winning the coveted Base Airman of the Month for
March 1969, a feat which was featured in the Pacific Stars And Stripes newspaper
read by every service man stationed in the Pacific theater of operations. After his
Viet Nam tour of duty he was stationed at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Arizona
where he met and married his wife, Lequita.
He graduated from Arizona State University in May, 1973, and after a 30-plus year
career as a financial advisor he joined a number of service organizations including
Easter Seals and Valley Forward, sponsor of EarthFest. He was also involved with the
National Federation of Independent Business and became the longest-serving
chairman of the Leadership Committee ever. He spoke before the ( AZ ) House Ways
and Means & Senate Finance committees. He then joined Disabled American
Veterans ( DAV ) in September of 2015. He rose quickly through the ranks and
became Chapter 8 Commander in May of 2019 where he served with Distinction for 3
years before being “ termed out”. The next year, as Vice Commander, he won the
title of National Champion Recruiter!
