New Social Security Scam

The Internet is a wonderful tool to make our lives easier, however, there are potential dangers lurking when consumers are too easily lulled into a sense of complacency. In an effort to keep you informed we wanted to share news concerning a new Social Security e-mail scam.

The sender claims to be from the Social Security Administration with concerns that "someone is illegally using your Social Security number and assuming your identity" and directs you to a Website designed to look like Social Security’s Internet Website.

Once directed to the phony website, you will be asked to divulge personal and confidential information about your credit card. The Administration's Inspector General advises consumers to always avoid disclosing such information online. Any request for personal identification should be confirmed over the telephone to protect you against possible scams.

Identity fraud can include a host of crimes, ranging from the unauthorized use of a credit card, to assuming another person's identity and accessing their financial accounts. Unfortunately, the explosive growth of the unregulated information industry has created an environment in which individuals with a little time and effort can access your Social Security number (SSN), unlisted telephone number, and even your mother's maiden name.

These scammers then use that information, such as the data requested in the new Social Security scam, to take over your identity in order to open new accounts, apply for loans, obtain credit cards, and rent apartments. Studies show that victims of identity theft spend on average 90 hours of their own time and $1,700 in out of pocket expenses resolving the problem. In some cases, victims must change their Social Security numbers or phone numbers in order to alleviate the financial and emotional pain inflicted by identity theft.

Either through personal experience or personal contact, most Americans have been exposed to identity fraud. It is our fastest growing crime, costing approximately $750 million a year, and untold emotional stress. It is critical that Consumers have the information and the tools they need to fight identity thieves and to repair any damage they might inflict.

To report receipt of this e-mail message or other suspicious activity to Social Security’s Office of Inspector General, please call the OIG Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. A Public Fraud Reporting form is also available online at OIG’s website: