Nowadays it’s common to receive multiple spam calls a day. But while we know when we’re dealing with an unsolicited call, it can be difficult to tell when we’re dealing with someone pretending to be from an organization we’re actually a part of. When people pretend to be calling from one organization but are not and instead wish to obtain money from us, they are called scammers.
Threats of Fines and Jail Time
For instance, how do you know if a call from the Social Security Administration (SSA) is actually from the SSA? People may try to scam you through phone calls, text messages, and emails. It’s common for scammers to claim that you are having some sort of trouble with SSA, and may claim that if you do not act you will receive hefty fines or even jail time. It’s important to know that the SSA will not do this. Never believe that these individuals are from the SSA – even if they send you an identification badge, as these can be fake.
When someone claiming to be from the SSA or any other federal organization contacts you, it’s important that you don’t respond. If you answer a call that consists of this type of threatening nature be sure to hang up.
What Will the SSA Never Do?
You should also be aware that there according to its website, there are six things that the SSA will not do when contacting you. The SSA will never:
- Text or email images of an employee’s official government identification;
- Suspend your Social Security number;
- Threaten you with arrest or any other legal action if you don’t immediately pay a fee or fine;
- Require that you make a payment by mailing cash, paying by wire transfer, or with Internet currency or a retail gift card;
- Promise to provide you with assistance such as an increase in your benefits if you make a payment; or
- Send any type of letter or report via email that contains your personal information.
Also, note that the only time that the SSA will send you a text is if you’ve already opted in to receiving texts from them in select situations. If you have opted in the only texts that you will still receive are for updates and notifications or for enhanced security measures when you are trying to access your Social Security account.
What Happens if You Owe Money to the SSA?
If you should ever owe any money to the SSA you will receive notice when they mail you a letter, which will include payment options as well as information concerning your right to appeal. If you believe that you have been contacted by a scammer pretending to be from the SSA or if you believe that you have been a victim of a scam be sure to report it to the SSA at the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) website.
The Las Vegas SSD Attorneys at Roeschke Law, LLC Can Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with a disability that prevents you from working, you may not know how to proceed. Fortunately, the attorneys at Roeschke Law, LLC can help. We understand the impact that a disability can have on your physical, emotional, and financial health. That’s why it’s our mission to help you. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!