Scammers are taking advantage of Social Security confusion

The Social Security Administration recently announced that it will require in-person or online identity verification for certain services beginning April 14. Fraudsters are capitalizing on the changes and sending false requests for information to Social Security beneficiaries. 

To begin a new claim for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary (spouse or child) Social Security benefits, individuals will have to apply online or in person. Recipients will also have to request changes to their direct deposit information online or in person. The Social Security Administration will not complete these requests over the phone after mid-April.  

Importantly, the Social Security Administration has exempted claims regarding Medicare, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from these new identity verification requirements. That is, the Administration has said that requests about Medicare, SSDI, and SSI can still be completed over the phone, in addition to online or in-person.  

The Administration is not requesting information from already enrolled beneficiaries. Individuals not making new claims or changing their deposit information do not need to act.  

However, Administration workers have warned in media reporting that scammers are taking advantage of consumer confusion over the coming changes and impersonating Social Security officials. The reported pitches involve scammers requesting sensitive information, alleging that the request is in connection with the recent changes related to identity verification. The criminals might say they need an individual’s Social Security number and other personal information to continue receiving federal benefits. 

If someone contacts you and asks for information, claiming to be with the Social Security Administration, remember the following: 

• Social Security workers will never give an unsolicited call or text demanding to know an individual’s Social Security number or other details. 

• You do not need to take action to continue receiving benefits if you are already enrolled in one of the Social Security programs. The changes to identity verification are for new claims or requests to change deposit information. 

• Social Security workers will never threaten you with arrest, suspend your Social Security number, or demand immediate payment from you. They also will never ask for payment by cash, gift card, or cryptocurrency.