Consumers warned about scams in October
People participating in government programs are favorite targets of scammers. In October, DATCP warned consumers about old and new tactics.
Fox – Milwaukee
If you think you’ve heard from the U.S. Supreme Court recently, you’re likely the victim of a new “high-pressure scam,” government officials say.
The Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General (SSA OIG) issued a warning on Wednesday, October 8, about “government fraud.” The independent government agency called on beneficiaries of the program to be on high alert in case they are or are targeted.
According to the SSA OIG, the communication does not appear to be legitimate because it is printed on “fake U.S. Supreme Court letterhead,” refers to specific government officials, and uses forged signatures.
The altered elements of the “certificates,” including letterheads and signatures, were intended to persuade some of the program’s 75 million beneficiaries to “cooperate with designated SSA officials and pressure them to send money or share personal information.”
“At every level, this letter is completely false. Fraudsters continue to exploit fear and confusion by impersonating government agencies and officials,” SSA OIG Acting Inspector General Michelle L. Anderson said in a statement.
Here’s what you need to know about the New Government Scam, including what to do if you think you or a loved one has been targeted.
What to do if you receive a “scam email”
Anderson said anyone who received the “scam letter” or other communication in question should “tear it up and report it.”
“These criminals falsely accuse individuals of crimes and use federal agencies and employees to instill fear and justify their fraud,” Anderson said. “Beware of variations of this scam.”
Scammers may also follow up with phone calls or text messages to justify their “scam letter” claims.
There are several things to be aware of, including additional falsifications that may be included in the letter.
- error. (For example, it is incorrectly named “Drug Enforcement Administration.”)
- Claims made in connection with pending legal proceedings or criminal charges.
- Allegations that Social Security numbers were issued as a result of identity theft and compromise.
- Claims regarding frozen assets or issues with banking or investment balances.
- The letter itself is a “certificate”.
- Official style letterhead and signature.
- Wording such as “The recipient is fully responsible for any losses incurred.”
How to protect yourself from Social Security scams
Here are some tips to protect you and your loved ones from Social Security-related scams, courtesy of SSA IOG.
- Be wary of individuals or entities claiming to be from SSA or other government agencies.
- Before giving out personal information or sending money, stop, think, and talk to someone you trust.
- Stay up to date on the latest fraud alerts and techniques by following SSA’s OIG on social media platforms like X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
For more consumer protection tips, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website. To report or learn more about Social Security scams, visit ssa.gov/scam.
