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Your Social Security number is an important key for an identity thief. Scammers want it, and they think of all sorts of ways to trick you into giving it away.

Here at the Federal Trade Commission, we’re getting reports about calls from scammers claiming to be from the Social Security Administration. They say there’s been a computer problem, and they need to confirm your Social Security number.

Other people have told us that they have come across spoof websites that look like the place where you would apply for a new Social Security card – but these websites are actually a setup to steal your personal information.

If you get a phone call or are directed to a website other than ssa.gov that is claiming to be associated with the Social Security Administration, don’t respond. It’s most likely a scam.

Here’s some tips to deal with these government imposters:

  • Don’t give the caller your information. Never give out or confirm sensitive information – like your bank account, credit card, or Social Security number – unless you know who you’re dealing with. If someone has contacted you, you can’t be sure who they are.
  • Don’t trust a name or number. Con artists use official-sounding names to make you trust them. To make their call seem legitimate, scammers use internet technology to spoof their area code – so although it may seem they are calling from Washington, DC, they could be calling from anywhere in the world.
  • Check with the Social Security Administration. The SSA has a warning about these scams and suggests you contact them directly at 1-800-772-1213 to verify the reason for the contact and the person’s identity prior to providing any information to the caller.

If you come across one of these scams, please report it to the Social Security Administration’s Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271, or 1-866-501-2101(TTY), and then tell the FTC about it.

Search Terms
identity theft
imposter
scam
Topics
Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts
Scams
Phishing Scams
Government Impersonators
Social Security Impersonators

It is your choice whether to submit a comment. If you do, you must create a user name, or we will not post your comment. The Federal Trade Commission Act authorizes this information collection for purposes of managing online comments. Comments and user names are part of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) public records system, and user names also are part of the FTC’s computer user records system. We may routinely use these records as described in the FTC’s Privacy Act system notices. For more information on how the FTC handles information that we collect, please read our privacy policy.

The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.

  • We won’t post off-topic comments, repeated identical comments, or comments that include sales pitches or promotions.
  • We won’t post comments that include vulgar messages, personal attacks by name, or offensive terms that target specific people or groups.
  • We won’t post threats, defamatory statements, or suggestions or encouragement of illegal activity.
  • We won’t post comments that include personal information, like Social Security numbers, account numbers, home addresses, and email addresses. To file a detailed report about a scam, go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

We don't edit comments to remove objectionable content, so please ensure that your comment contains none of the above. The comments posted on this blog become part of the public domain. To protect your privacy and the privacy of other people, please do not include personal information. Opinions in comments that appear in this blog belong to the individuals who expressed them. They do not belong to or represent views of the Federal Trade Commission.

Deeno
February 19, 2019
800 325 0776 SCAM CALL Indian Accent, telling me to Immediately press 1 to speak to an SSA person. Gave back different call back number, i didn't get to jot it down.
Jsm
February 26, 2019

In reply to by Deeno

I got the same call Indian accent.. From 80024589752
XYZ
February 20, 2019
got a call from automated system announcement from 298 855 5888 saying that SSN has been suspended dude to suspicious activity.
CMFINC
February 20, 2019
Just got a SSI call from 602-903-3942 wanting me to contact them asap be for they take legal action against me..lol..
Shameful people
February 20, 2019
Got a call from 603-780-4305 saying they were from SSA. It was a man with a foreign accent I could barely understand him. They wanted my name and I told them to look up my number and tell me who he was calling. He hung up.
BPDC
February 20, 2019
Just got this call from 206-792-9751. Told me to call back else my SS# would be suspended and a bench warrant would be issued for my arrest.
Ar
February 20, 2019
I’ve been called a few days in a row from numbers 1800 777 2670 1800 777 2675 And picked up once . They said my ssn has strange activity and compromised . They will permanently suspend it if...... I hung up .
BackWoods Annie
February 20, 2019
UVETSSA 904-204-4793 I think this might be a scam, don't give out any info or better yet, just don't answer the phone, that's what we usually do. If we do answer we say "city morgue" or something else crazy that way they hang up and usually don't call back unless they're using another one of their numerous numbers. How do they get so many numbers and why doesn't the phone companies do something about this problem? I guess as long as the phone companies are making money they're not too concerned.
Mark
February 21, 2019
Got a Call yesterday from this number, and let it go to Voice Mail. The whole message was in Chinese, and have no clue what was said.
Couldn't Resist
February 21, 2019
So I just got a call from "Officer Gary Cole" from a Seattle area code... I couldn't resist. I called back, gave the guy a fake name, fake SSN, and let him give a 10 minute spiel about how there's fraudulent activity on that SSN, and that there's an arrest warrant being issued for me. After he was done talking, I said "Ok so do you want to know where I am so you can send officers to come and get me?" and he replied "You want to be arrested?" I said "Buddy, prison would be a welcome vacation compared to the hell that is my life." He hung up! Might have to keep calling and asking for an update on that arrest, see how "Officer Gary Cole" likes getting flooded with calls!
Jen
February 27, 2019

In reply to by Couldn't Resist

I do the same they call me all day while i am working they get constant calls from me ! They are verbally abusive and get it right back. No time for nonsense
Grif
February 21, 2019
I just received a so called call from SS using the number 214-731-7631 just hung up on them...
Jill G.
February 21, 2019
Same scam 512-798-8530 - verbally abusive folks pretending to be the social security administration.
Deni
February 21, 2019
Keep getting these threatening messages From robot calls I have blocked calls also called the SSI office to report They do not call you
DontEvenTryImT…
February 21, 2019
Received a call from the number (815) 322-9530 that had Illinois as it's Caller ID. It was a very bad computer animated voice saying that my social security number was used in criminal activity and I need to call them. I called and before the man who answered could say hello, I heard a lot of noise in the background from what is referred to in the phone sales business as a "boiler room". Operators on their phones in cubicles packed into a tiny room. I informed the guy of why I was calling and said, "Don't call this number again. I don't fall for scams." He acted innocent but I ignored his attempt at feigning innocence, said good day and hung up. So now, I'm here, adding my comment. I guess stuff like this will always be a problem. You catch one and another one pops up, like playing freaking whack-a-mole!
Gipsy51
February 21, 2019
Someone called me from 903-484-1278 and left a message that there wich be taking action agains my Social Security! I googled the Number and it is a unsafe Number! Just now I got a other call from 800-269-0271 which supposed to be a Social Security Phone Nr, it’s to late for me to call my Social Security Office now but definitely will call them tomorrow!
Justtryinto report
February 22, 2019
So.. I got a call on my cell from 817.719.8067 claiming to be SSA... I did not press any numbers. I then called the number from my office phone, and a guy with an India Accent, answered "Social Security, and proceeded to ask em for my personal information. I hung up. I tried to report this fraud to the FBI and to the SSA Fraud numbers, but, typical of Government, they do NOT make it easy - - not easy at all. I eventually said screw it, and gave up! and posted here. If you get a call out of the blue to your cell saying they are Social Security - -hang up.... SSA will never call you! Oh.. but the FTC website, does seem to have some measure of process allowing you to report these things directly to them, and of course, this comment page. Thank you FTC!
Dmc
February 22, 2019
My roommate just got a phishing call from 678-701-8258 stating his SS# had been cancelled due to fraudulent use. From a Georgia phone number & obviously a scam. Reported call to SS Fraud number. Don't call the number back, just block it & report.
Sami
August 06, 2019

In reply to by Dmc

I just got same kind call which mention that my SSN number used in criminal activities so then he need she need my info to tell me what is going on so then I ask about my name then she told that her name is Sierra Countrny and Batch number # SSN-2895 and if something that I can complain Incase and she ask for my SSN number to give me information and I notice that she has Indian accent and I told her that can not give you my info and she said ok I am gonna send your info to your closes location Sherif department to arrest me at the same time I search from google about her name and it doesn’t show up nothing but this message then I read your comments which is same as mine and then say thanks God but she got my name hopefully she can’t do nothing just with my name but thank you very much for this information you safe me. Regards Sami
Texas Gal
February 22, 2019
I received a phone call from the following number 929 314-4846 claiming to be from the Social Security Administration and that i had a warrant for my arrest for criminal activity and would I please call them. The voice said their name was Ryan and it sounded computer generated.
HateTalkingToRobots
February 22, 2019
Called 1-800-269-0271 to report a number that may be a fraudulent number. I was bumped around from robot to robot for around 10 minutes, when all I wanted to do was give that number to the authorities. The number is 1-817-719-8067, so there it is. If this agency has the time and an actual real person, you can check into it, or not, I don't care anymore.
SBB
February 22, 2019
Received call and voice mail from 903-841-5577 about SS#
Allyoopps
February 22, 2019
This is the voicemail I received today... Hi this is Officer Ryan Smith calling you from the Department of social security administration and the reason you have received his phone call from our department is to inform you that there is a legal enforcement _⁠_⁠_⁠_⁠_⁠_ filed on your Social Security number for criminal activity so when you get this message kind a call as soon as possible _⁠_ our number that is 323-609-8348 I repeat 323-609-8348 before we begin with the legal proceedings thank you…”
M&M
February 23, 2019
I received a call 2/22/2018, I was not home so they left a message to call them back ASAP as my SS# was compromised. I called them back at the # on my caller ID 214-377-1364 from Dallas, TX. They answered the phone Social Security Administration in a foreign accent, but sounded convincing. They asked for my name & thento verify my address, they then asked for my SS#. My radar was up now, I asked them why I needed to give them my # if they called me about fraud. They said it was to verify I was who I said I was. I refused and ended the call saying I would contact SS directly. I tried the 1-800-269-0271 number but they were closed. Very upsetting situation. Social Security needs to put out ALERTS to this type of FRAUD!
M&M
February 23, 2019
I received a call 2/22/2018, I was not home so they left a message to call them back ASAP as my SS# was compromised. I called them back at the # on my caller ID 214-377-1364 from Dallas, TX. They answered the phone Social Security Administration in a foreign accent, but sounded convincing. They asked for my name & thento verify my address, they then asked for my SS#. My radar was up now, I asked them why I needed to give them my # if they called me about fraud. They said it was to verify I was who I said I was. I refused and ended the call saying I would contact SS directly. I tried the 1-800-269-0271 number but they were closed. Very upsetting situation. Social Security needs to put out ALERTS to this type of FRAUD!
Cat22
February 25, 2019
Just received a call saying I need to retain criminal attorney. Fraudulent activity on my social security number. Phone was 775-863-8712
BillinTexas
February 25, 2019
I received a call this morning from someone portraying themselves as a Social Security Administration Employee. They stated that Legal action was being taken against My Social Security account. I hung up from the caller cause I know it was a Scam. The number from which My call originated is 775-557-4225. The Area Code is located in Nevada. Maybe the Government can do something about these idiots???
cls78
February 25, 2019
Received call f/ 917-830-4466; robo call claiming to be from SSA. My SS# has been identified with "fraudulent or illegal activity." What a waste of my time.... *sigh*
Rustybongwater
February 25, 2019
Getting calls from these numbers: (214) 390-3580 & (214) 731-7520 **Transcript of message** social Security Administration, and the reason you have received this phone call from our department is to inform you that there is a legal enforcement actions filed on your social security number for fraudulent activities. So when you get this message kindly call back to us at the earliest possible before we begin with the legal proceedings on our number that is 214-390-3580. I repeat 214-390-3580. Thank you and have a nice day. Trolled them for 30 min before they hung up on me. Lol fun times.
pi
February 26, 2019
you cannot report a telephone scam without giving your own SSAN. Waste of time trying to help
scam call from…
February 26, 2019
575-268-0783 seems to be from Arizona. The caller says to call them immediately that there has been a legal enforcement action taken on my social security number for fraudulent activity. This must be a scam.
gjgjg
February 26, 2019
SCAM ALERT: 512 942 0283 - calling as the "Social Security Administration" saying there will be legal action taken if you don't call the number back immediately
idiot for almo…
February 26, 2019
People are using a 408 number and a 928 number, giving case numbers and officer is names & numbers. Scaring you into thinking that you're being arrested
TAKMinnesota
February 26, 2019
Just received 2 calls from the same number that left Robo messages. Number was 800-806-5816. Tried calling it back to see what they would say and it is a recording that sounds like an elf telling me to stay on the line for the next available agent and hung up on me after I waited for a minute or so.
Niurka
February 26, 2019
I got this message today: "The Department of Social Security Administration, this is the last attempt to contact you in regards to your social security number of suspension ignoring. This message will be marked as in an appearance before the Magistrate Judge call back on our department number 425-616-2535. I repeat 425-616-2535 immediately it for further proceedings. Thank you." Another scam!
rizwanlive@
April 30, 2019
Social Security Scammer call from 1 866 404 2509
Sacramento
February 26, 2019
I just received a call from 800-772-1223 and let it go to voicemail. The message said to press 1 to speak to a SSA officer or if you missed this call to call the Headquarters of the SSA department at 213-370-2059 and not disregard this message as it is a serious matter. Total Scam!
MC
February 26, 2019
Received 2 calls within 2-3 hours from 678-701-8197. I missed the first call at 1:08pm and an automated message was left stating “the reason you have received this phone call from our department is to inform you that there's a legal enforcement action filed on your social security number for fraudulent activity so before this matter goes to the state court house and before you get arrested if you need any information or have any question kindly call us back at 678-701-8197 thank you…” The second call, same number, came in at 3:38pm and I hesitated to answer however, I did and it was the same automated message. I never called the number back Helpful • 0
Pk
February 26, 2019
Got 2 calls today saying my ss # was involved in criminal activity. To call them @ 914-296-1067 before they proceeded with legal action.
Scammer alert
February 26, 2019
From phone number 404 850 0981 from Atlanta Georgia, ss# phishing talking about criminal activity
wiganv
February 27, 2019
Just got a call 10 mins ago from California number 310-984-6632. He asked if he was talking to ******* (not my official full name) so I knew it was a scam and asked me to verify my Social Security Number over the phone. Told him absolutely not and he hung up. Just FYI
dont pick up (…
February 27, 2019
I just recieved a phone call from a man that asked about my ssn number when I didnt give it to him he got frustrated and hung up. please be aware. Thanks (512) 548-8808. said from Legal enforcement actions.
Tee
February 27, 2019
Just received phone call from 210-775-2499. Foreign sounding voice, male, robo call. Said it was Social Security administration, my number had been flagged for fraud and would be suspended. I needed to call them back to verify information. I knew it was a fraud as SS doesn't contact you via phone anyway. I called back, name answered the phone and was very hard to understand his English also, but he answered Social Security Investigation, special Agent Brian Walker. I knew it was a scam, so I immediately hung up. I am just sick of this scam going around.
SomeoneSomeWhere
March 01, 2019

In reply to by Tee

No way dude! I know this Brian Walker very well. He used to be an IRS agent (called me to collect taxes owed), then an FBI agent (called me to collect a fine; otherwise he would send the Sheriff to arrest me). I thought he was done with being a Federal agent. Last time I heard from him, he was working for a collection agency (had a friendly call from him in regards to my debt that was sent to collection). Glad to know that he is back with the Federal Government working for the SSA.
deborah
February 27, 2019
call from 1-800-685-3928 identifying themselves as social security employee saying my account was being investigated for criminal activity I hung up.
TinaT
February 27, 2019
got a call today says the SS will block my SS number.. lol.. cool!
Maryanne C
February 27, 2019
This guy called from 575 519-5421 and said there was a fraud action requiring legal enforcement on my social, but he sure didn't have any info to back up his claim. He also sounded like he was a call routed from India. Don't believe it.
leikitty
February 27, 2019
Feb. 27,2019 12:54 pm . Got a call from 270 261 4752 ( this area code is in Glascow , Kentucky. I live in Calif.) (and the IP address to that number is listed as in PA)a recorded message with a mans voice, said they were from the SS Dept and that my SS# had been removed from the list. Because of suspicious activity. And to speak with someone about this to push the 2 button. I did and a gal came on the phone, told her I would check out he number to see if it was a scam. and would call her back. When I did try to call back 3 times the call wouldnt go through. Isnt there enough going on in the world without Losers trying to trick and rob you? They just dont care how badly they screw up someones financial situation and the depression and sickness suffered from worrying. Theres a day of reckoning coming to these thieves.
Get a Life!
February 27, 2019
I’ve been receiving calls for 2 days now, several a day, from a different but similar number each time. Caller ID shows “unknown”. They left an automated message one time, which got cut off in the beginning, but is transcribed below. Get a life and stop calling ppl! ‭(800) 747-7752‬ (800) 747-7750‬ ‭‭(800) 747-7746‬ ‭(800) 722-2745‬ ‭(800) 722-2738‬ ‭(800) 722-2729‬ ‭(800) 722-2723‬ “... further clearance in case you feel this is as an error you may connect with legal cell of Social Security Administration. In order to connect with the Social Security administration officer press one now. In case we do not hear from you, your social will be blocked permanently. To connect now, press one and you will automatically be connected with the concerned department official.”
Marc's wife
February 28, 2019
I got a Robot call from 541-378-6561, said it was from Oregon telling me there has been fraudulent activity on my social security be number and had to call back and talk to a Emma Johnson or they would start proceedings against. I called social security, then the FTC. FTC took All my information. After speaking with them, I did a white pages search for the phone number and it came back to a woman in Florida.
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