The bad guys have come up with a scam to steal your Social Security Number (SSN). These fraudulent vishing, or “voice phishing” attempts often appear to come from the actual Social Security Administration (SSA) number–but the scammers are faking it.

When you answer the phone, the bad guys claim that your SSN has been suspended due to suspicious activity or involvement in criminal activity. They’ll also claim your bank account will be seized, to shock you into action. The scammers will then ask you to confirm your SSN in order to reactivate it–don’t fall for this trick!

Remember the following facts to avoid falling for this SSN scam:

Your SSN will not be suspended! The SSA would never call to threaten you or your benefits.
If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from the SSA, hang up and call the SSA yourself to confirm.
Never give any part of your SSN (or your bank account or credit card number!) to anyone who contacts you.

Always think twice before sharing your sensitive information with strangers! Also, please discuss with your elderly friends and relatives as they are often a target of these vishing scams.