.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
Social Security is a financial benefit program sponsored by the American government. Like all programs that deal with money, there is the opportunity for criminals to attempt scams and fraud.
Learning how to report social security fraud is essential so you can minimize the damage done to your Social Security.
What Is Social Security?
Social Security is a benefit program designed to supply American citizens with income after they retire or if they cannot work due to a disability, to support people after the death of a family member, and to provide supplemental security income.
The program is run through the Social Security Administration (SSA), which is a federal government organization. It’s important to see which social security benefits you’re eligible for so you can take full advantage of the financial support offered.
What Is a Social Security Number?
A Social Security number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit number provided to American citizens. It’s used to identify people, track their income, and determine their eligibility for Social Security benefits.
It’s also needed to get a job and start a bank account. Social Security cards with your social security number on it are provided by the SSA. The official site for all things Social Security is www.ssa.gov.
What Is Social Security Fraud?
Now that you know what Social Security is, it’s time to get into the inner workings of Social Security fraud. The SSA defines Social Security fraud as any time someone fails to disclose something or provides inaccurate information when applying for benefits.
Specific examples of fraud as listed by the SSA include:
- Failing to list events or facts that affect beneficiary eligibility
- Misusing benefits
- Failing to report the death of someone who is receiving benefits
- Reporting false information on a claim
- Buying/selling Social Security cards
- Using another person’s Social Security number to file a claim (or using it in any way)
- Impersonating an employee to carry out a Social Security-related scam
- Bribing an SSA employee
SSA Impersonation Scams
Sometimes scammers contact you pretending to be an SSA employee and ask for your Social Security number or account information or pressure you to take quick action in some way. They can also promise to boost your benefits for a small upfront fee.
These calls, texts, emails, and letters are 100% fraudulent, so always be cautious and double-check that the actual SSA is contacting you before providing any sensitive information.
How Do You Report Social Security Fraud?
The Social Security fraud hotline is provided by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). You can call the OIG fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271. You can also report fraud at https://oig.ssa.gov/report/.
The SSA has a zero-tolerance policy for fraud and will investigate any reports made to these hotlines. However, they cannot tell you what action has been taken by law enforcement to fix the problem, as per federal policy.
On the SSA fraud site, you can also find information for reporting fraud without Internet access, as mail addresses and fax numbers are provided.
Preventing Social Security Fraud
There is no one way to stop Social Security fraud, but practicing cybersecurity tactics like using strong passwords, second phone number apps like Burner in place of your real number, and never giving out sensitive information online can help reduce risks.
Always be cautious and report any fraud that does occur. But don’t let that stop you from taking advantage of all the amazing benefits Social Security can offer.
Sources:
Social Security Number and Card | SSA
