In 2022, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received over 191,000 complaints of government imposter scams. Of those, 14.6% said they lost money to a scammer – a total of $508.96 million. To prevent further losses, we urge everyone to use caution when receiving calls or messages from someone claiming to be from a government agency.
Recognizing the basic signs of a scam is helpful in stopping fraudulent activity. Remember:
- Scammers pretend to be from an agency or organization you know to gain your trust.
- Scammers say there is a problem or a prize.
- Scammers pressure you to act immediately.
- Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way.
Social Security will never:
- Threaten arrest or legal action if someone does not immediately send money to resolve an overpayment.
- Promise to increase benefits or resolve identity theft issues for a fee or by moving money into a protected account.
- Require payment with a retail gift card, prepaid debit card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, internet currency, or by mailing cash.
- Send text, email, or social media messages that contain personal information.
Visit our Scam Awareness and Social Media Resources webpages for additional resources and information on how to report Social Security Scams.
