Even prior to mid March when much of the country partially shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic Social Security scams were on the rise, but now there are Social Security scams and COVID-19 scams to be aware of so you don’t become victim to one of these scams.
Social Security alerted the public to the different types of scams on its COVID-19 update page on its website. Below are the specific types of scams the government is aware of and people should familiarize themselves with these scams.
The Inspector General of Social Security, Gail S. Ennis, is warning the public about fraudulent letters threatening suspension of Social Security benefits due to COVID-19-related office closures. We will not suspend or discontinue benefits because our offices are closed to the public for in-person service.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General is alerting the public about fraud schemes related to COVID-19. For example, scammers are offering COVID-19 tests to Medicare beneficiaries in exchange for personal details, including Medicare information. However, the services are unapproved and illegitimate.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is alerting people about various COVID-19 related fraud and scams. From contact tracing scams to treatment claims, government imposter scams, and fraud related to Economic Impact Payments, learn about all COVID-19 related fraud and scams at ftc.gov/coronavirus/resources, and report the scams you see at ftc.gov/complaint.
Some important things to remember if you receive a call that seems to be suspicious is not to provide personal information like bank account information or Social Security numbers. If Social Security is contacting you, agents who work for the agency certainly already know your Social Security number and if there is an issue with a Social Security matter the agency will typically contact a person by mail.
