Social Security has continuously updated information related to its operation during the COVID-19 pandemic and on its update page the agency recently went into some detail about the latest Social Security scams that are out there aimed at getting access to the private information to profit off of.
The government is working to inform the public of these scams so people don’t mistakenly provide valuable information to the scammers. Below are some specific details of some of the more widespread scams being conducted according to the Social Security Administration. One thing everyone should be aware of is the government will not contact people directly to offer grants or payments in exchange for personal information.
- 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. Scammers are increasing their efforts to swindle people out of their money and personal information. These scams can include contracting, treatment, vaccines, government imposter scams, and fraud related to economic impact payments. We encourage you to learn about all COVID-19-related fraud and scams, and to report the scams you see.
- Getting vaccinated is very important. As more people are eligible to get vaccinated, scammers see new opportunities to trick you. The FTC and the National Association of Attorneys General are teaming up to remind you that no matter what anyone tells you, you cannot buy COVID-19 vaccines online and there’s no out-of-pocket cost to get the shots. COVID-19 vaccines are free. The FTC website lists some ways to avoid vaccine-related scams. If you know about a COVID-19 vaccine scam, tell the FTC about it. You can also file a complaint with your state or territory attorney general through the consumer website of the National Association of Attorneys General.
- 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. You can find more information on the Department of Labor’s website.
