SSA fraud illustration

WASHINGTON — While the vast majority of Americans spend the holidays relaxing and sharing in goodwill with friends and family, the office of the Inspector General wants to remind everyone to be aware that there are bad actors out there who use the holidays to take advantage of people’s generous spirits.

These scammers often pretend they are representing the Social Security Administration, or another government agency, in order to “steal your money or personal information,” authorities said in a statement. They say scammers “frequently target older and other more vulnerable members of our communities.”

Be aware that phone calls, text messages, caller IDs or documents sent by U.S. mail “may look official, but they are not.”

Currently, fraudsters are calling to verify information about the 2023 cost-of-living adjustment for people who receive benefits. “Remember, this adjustment is automatic, and a beneficiary does not need to verify anything.”

Social Security “will not ask you to provide information or money to get your benefit increase. Know that how we do business with you doesn’t change because it’s the holidays.

“We may email or text you about programs and services, but we will never ask for personal information via email or text.”

It’s important to know what to look for.

“Recognizing the signs of a scam can help you avoid falling victim to one. Scammers pretend to be from an agency or organization you know to gain your trust. Scammers say there is a problem with your Social Security number or account. Scammers pressure you to act immediately. Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way.

“Know what to look for and be alert. Scammers don’t take days off, and neither should you.”

Everyone should promptly identify, and report, any kind of communications that appear suspicious and could be part of a scam.

“If you receive a questionable call, text, or email, do not respond, but hang up and report it to oig.ssa.gov/report.

“Scammers frequently change their methods with new tactics and messages to trick people. We encourage you to stay up to date on the latest news and advisories by following SSA’s Office of the Inspector General on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook, or by subscribing to the IG’s email alerts.”

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.