Is the Social Security Scam real or a scam?

Q: Is the Social Security Scam real or a scam?

This is a scam. Do not click any links or provide personal information.

Social Security Scam: Is It a Scam?

High Prevalence Type: Voice Phishing Impersonates: Social Security Administration (SSA)

Yes, this is a scam. Do not click any links or provide personal information.

Social Security scams have become one of the top reported frauds in America. Scammers call or text claiming your Social Security number has been suspended or linked to criminal activity, demanding payment to fix the problem.

How This Scam Works

The scam follows this pattern:

1. **You receive a call or voicemail** claiming to be from Social Security.

2. **The message is threatening** - your SSN has been suspended, linked to crime, or will be cancelled.

3. **They claim law enforcement is involved** and you face arrest.

4. **They demand immediate payment** via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.

5. **They may ask for your SSN** to "verify your identity" or "reactivate" your number.

6. **The caller ID may show SSA's real number** due to spoofing.

Red Flags to Watch For

SSN can be "suspended" - This is impossible, SSNs cannot be suspended
Threats of arrest - SSA doesn't threaten arrest over the phone
Demands for gift cards or crypto - Government never accepts these
Immediate payment required
Requests for your SSN - SSA already has it
Robocall or voicemail - SSA doesn't leave threatening voicemails

Example Scam Messages

This is the Social Security Administration. Your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity. Press 1 to speak with an agent or face arrest. ALERT: Your SSN has been linked to criminal activity in Texas. To prevent suspension, call immediately: 1-800-XXX-XXXX The Department of Social Security has detected fraudulent activity. Your benefits will be terminated unless you verify your identity immediately.

What to Do If You Received This

Hang up immediately
Don't press any buttons
Never give your SSN to callers
Know that SSA will never threaten arrest
Call SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 if concerned

What to Do If You Fell For It

Report identity theft at identitytheft.gov
Create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov
Request an SSA earnings statement to check for fraud
Consider a credit freeze
File a police report
Contact your bank if you sent money

How to Report This Scam

SSA OIG - oig.ssa.gov
FTC - reportfraud.ftc.gov
SSA - 1-800-772-1213

Last updated: January 13, 2026