The Social Security Administration’s efforts to educate the public on Social Security-related scams are a year-round operation.  They did, however, set aside March 5 as National Slam the Scam Day.  The goal was to give current and prospective beneficiaries alike the tools to spot scams and protect their personal information.  SSA Public Affairs Specialist Jack Myers says this initiative comes amid an increase in complaints of government impostor scams in the last two years.

In addition, around 14% of reported Social Security impostor scams resulted in the victim losing money.  Signs that a call is a scam include requests for unusual financial transfers and a heightened sense of urgency.

While Social Security does occasionally call beneficiaries, it is typically in response to a benefits application.  Myers stresses the agency will never ask for payment in unusual forms, threaten suspension or arrest, or ask for money in exchange for assistance or extra benefits. 

The Social Security administration urges anyone to report scams related to that agency via www.ssa.gov/scams.  Myers acknowledges that victims may feel too embarrassed about the situation to do so but adds that everyone in the U.S. is vulnerable.

More information on the Social Security Administration is available at www.ssa.gov.

Jack Myers appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.