Someone called saying my SSN is suspended

What to do right now

• Hang up. Do not press any buttons, do not stay on the line.
• Do not call back any number they left in a voicemail. That number goes straight back to the scammer.
• If you are genuinely worried, go to ssa.gov yourself and contact the Social Security Administration through their official number.
• Check your bank and credit accounts for anything unusual. Set up fraud alerts if you want extra peace of mind.

How to verify for real

Only use official government websites and phone numbers that you find yourself. The SSA's real number is 1-800-772-1213. You can also report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Never trust a number that a caller gave you.

Things they will try to get you to do

• Confirm your SSN over the phone. The real SSA already has it. They would not call you to ask.
• Buy gift cards to "clear legal issues." No government agency accepts gift cards as payment. Ever.
• Install apps or software so they can "verify" your identity. What they actually want is remote access to your device.

What the scam call sounds like

"This is the Social Security Administration. Your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity. Press 1 now to speak with an agent."

"A warrant has been issued in your name. Pay now to avoid arrest and clear your case."

Both are fake. The SSA does not call people to suspend numbers, and they definitely do not threaten arrest over the phone.

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