Social Security Scam Is Targeting Seniors On Fixed Incomes, Cops Warn

NORTH CASTLE, NY — Police are warning about a scam targeting senior citizens on fixed incomes.

There has been an uptick in Social Security scams, most recently involving unsolicited calls in which people are told that they are eligible to receive an increase in their Social Security checks, according to the North Castle Police Department.

That unexpected offer from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to activate a benefit increase is from a criminal and not the real SSA, law enforcement agencies warn.

Report suspected scams to oig.ssa.gov/report and most importantly, police said, do not share personal or financial information. Never click on links or respond to suspicious emails.

Experts say there are a few commonsense rules of thumb that can go a long way toward preventing Social Security theft and fraud.

• Do not respond to unsolicited calls or emails requesting information.
• Only go on trusted websites.
• Do not click suspicious links.
• Treat your Social Security Number as confidential information and don’t share it.

Police recommend visiting ftc.gov/scam to read about common scams currently making the rounds.