Social Security has recently posted some updates to its COVID-19 page to make sure the public is aware of the latest scams that aim to steal private information from Americans. These scams seem to not be going away anytime soon. Considering all that is going on right now, the COVID-19 pandemic, the government issuing economic impact statements and political turmoil, it is important to know what types of scams are out there to protect yourself against them. Below is information from Social Security warning about the latest on these scams.
Unfortunately, there are scammers who will take advantage of the current situation and try to trick you out of your money and personal information. Don’t be fooled!
No government agency will contact you offering COVID-19-related grants or economic impact payments in exchange for personal financial information, an advance fee, or gift cards. Please do not respond. These are scams. Visit Treasury’s website if you suspect economic impact payment fraud. Report Social Security scams about COVID-19.
The Scams Social Security Is Paying Attention To
- 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 walk-in visitors. Read this and other fraud advisories.
- 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. Learn about this and other COVID-19 fraud from HHS.
- 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.
- The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FINCEN) is alerting financial institutions about Unemployment Insurance (UI) fraud. They have identified multiple fraud schemes, including identity-related fraud, in which filers submit applications for UI payments using stolen or fake identification to receive payments. Find more about UI fraud schemes from FINCEN. To report UI fraud, please contact the appropriate state fraud hotline on the Department of Labor’s website.
