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Earlier this month, we told you about a growing scam: people pretend to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and try to get your Social Security number or your money. That scam is now growing exponentially. To compare: in 2017, we heard from 3,200 people about SSA imposter scams, and those people reported losing nearly $210,000. So far THIS year: more than 35,000 people have reported the scam, and they tell us they’ve lost $10 million.

Here’s what one of those scam calls sound like:

Scammers are saying your Social Security number (SSN) has been suspended because of suspicious activity, or because it’s been involved in a crime. Sometimes, the scammer wants you to confirm your SSN to reactivate it. Sometimes, he’ll say your bank account is about to be seized – but he’ll tell you what to do to keep it safe. (Often, that involves putting your money on gift cards and giving him the codes – which, of course, means that your money is gone.)

Oh, and your caller ID often shows the real SSA phone number (1-800-772-1213) when these scammers call – but they’re faking that number. It’s not the real SSA calling.

Here's what to know:

  • Your Social Security number is not about to be suspended. You don’t have to verify your number to anyone who calls out of the blue. And your bank accounts are not about to be seized.
  • SSA will never call to threaten your benefits or tell you to wire money, send cash, or put money on gift cards. Anyone who tells you to do those things is a scammer. Every time.
  • The real SSA number is 1-800-772-1213, but scammers are putting that number in the caller ID. If you’re worried about what the caller says, hang up and call 1-800-772-1213 to speak to the real SSA. Even if the wait time is long, confirm with the real SSA before responding to one of these calls.
  • Never give any part of your Social Security number to anyone who contacts you. Or your bank account or credit card number.

If you get one of these calls, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

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Anti-spooferDo…
November 20, 2019
I just got a call at 5:30 a.m. from one of these scamsters. They left an 800# to call back, but I didn't have a pen to write it down. I wonder if there's a product that can make a noise so nasty that it leaves the recipient temporarily deaf, if they were working for the callers?
rockville resident
November 20, 2019
Call from ‭+1 (443) 461-8748‬ with similar message claiming “fraudulent activity on my social security number and they are calling before they move forward with legal action.” Asking to call them back.
kaede
November 20, 2019
got a suspicious call just like that from 1844-344-7320. beware.
Rico 4rm Tejas
November 20, 2019
Got a robo-call this morning say my SS no. was involve in a fraud and to 1-844-344-9150. Beware out there.
notfallingforit
November 20, 2019
877-578-3288 Just called me and said my ss number was going to be suspended until I called back, I did call back and block the number and said operators were busy to try my call again! yea I ain't, just wanted to cuss someone out.
RBabyBlueP
November 20, 2019
Got a call from 833-701-0617 saying my SS# is suspended for fraudulent activities !
Mike HDon't us…
November 20, 2019
i got a phone call from the followinh phone number. (346)347-8358. I called it back they claimed they were SSA.
hatethesescam
November 20, 2019
I scrolled through the comments and just wanted to let evryone know these scammers got a new number- (866) 651-2734. I called back on a land line and just get a busy signal.
Vicky
November 20, 2019
I keep getting these calls continuously now for about 6 months. I do not answer them because I don't know the number I figure if it's porton they'll leave a message. So then I look up the number and this is what I find. This world is crazy and people really have to watch what they're doing and not give any and I mean any information to no one!!!!
Ian Seign
November 20, 2019
The easiest thing to do is simply stop answering your phone. If you recognize the number, great, otherwise let them leave you a message. If they don't, it could be a scammer.
Deemarie
November 20, 2019
just got this call today from 800-435-4101
Francis
November 20, 2019
I just got a call from (833) 727 5350. S.S.N. scammers
warning to you
November 20, 2019
I received a call from 1-800-336-4940 stating that my SSN was about to be blocked for suspicious activity, drug trafficking and money laundering.
SA
November 20, 2019
I received the threat from the below numbers since last couple of days 800 443 5456 800 631 0344 800 628 3393
Ilene
November 20, 2019
Just now received a call 785-328-4546 saying my Social Security number was being suspended, and a lawsuit against will be filed against me for suspicious activity. Scam! Robot voicemail message.
Meekaboo
November 20, 2019
+1 866-002-2980 I got a call today along with+1 800-059-9257 this number I never answer I just wait for it to go to voice mail then call the number back to see if its real the number always brings a disconnected voice mail
concernedcitizen
November 20, 2019
I've been getting these calls for about a year now. I block each and every number that calls in, all with the same garbage of SS threats. Is there anything that can be done to stop this? it is unreal how they can call every day with the same scam. I am so tired of it, I am about to cancel my cell phone service.
sassyapes
November 20, 2019
707-313-5884 Call from this number, showed up as unknown but voicemail showed this number. Said it was SS admin
Ana
November 20, 2019
They called me today, unfortunately they caught me. I was bitcoin scammed. My accounts will be suspended, my life and husbands were in danger. They called me from the US Marshalls SVC with a record machine saying my SSN was about to be suspended for money laundry and narcotraffic with Mx and Colombia. They called me with all these numbers: 713 6935000 1800 7771213 646 9782792 956 4585232 Texted me after hanging the call : We are suspending your social security number now and activating your arrest warrant as well Local sheriff will trace your location And take you in a custody Unfortunately this was my bad experiwnce for more than 4 hours. Im new in the country, english is not mu first language, i was unable to understand 100% , they had Indian Accent, were 2 or more people, at the same time I heard many other people talking by phone with other victims. They took my money my time and peace. I didnt Know about this scam activities in the country. It wont happen me again for sure. Anyone of you have been called continously after something like this? What can i do? Its worth to go to the police department?
xiaoh
November 21, 2019
I had been suspicious through all the two hours drama, but they got me by fear to hang up their phone. I wasted hours of time to play an idiot to the point that close to domo my checking account money. Thank the Lord mercy, I didn’t loose a penny and learned this skyrocketed way of crime. These cold -blooded, greedy scammers! In my case, they used names: Matthew Gomezeles, Federal officer, from SSA, ID# SAA 74200; And Then Raymond Lee, his senior supervisor, ID number: GS65800; Then Jeffery Brown, director of SSA, why in Texas not Baltimore, MD? Because Jeffery travels and rotates, he says. He is director of SSA also work with DEA. He said, some one used my name and SS number to own 3 properties, 5 cars, 12 bank accounts, 8 credit cards, and do money laundering. And if I don’t work with them by answering their questions and do what they instructed, I will be arrested. They have a warrant number # 537542. They said they found me because I was in the criminal list, starting from an abandoned car in Rouledde, TX, while I am in illinois. The last guy “Jeffery Brown” repeatedly stopped me from calling my husband, friend or local police, or local SSA office, saying tell anybody about their call, will make my name to remain on the criminal list. Because he is the only person (in the world!) that can help me out. Then he paused, letting me not hang up my phone, and he was speaking to the federal treasure department something, to set up an account so I could wire my bank account money to it before my bank account be freezed. The purpose is to show the federal government my money is “white money”, not black! And I don’t not need to worry anything, my money will be put back to my account, by just show the policy office and SSA officer the “receipt “ when they come to my door within 48 hours. ... while Shivering, I drove my car to my bank following his instruction. I thank God the lord and I am glad for myself I did google “pretend social security administration officer”, and I found this article right at the bank parking lot, and I muted the phone, bravely did against this threats, called the bank staff to help me. They said it’s a scam, and took over the phone. They handled well with the scammers. I hope these people can be caught and punished. They will continue to steal. They could use the last four digit of my SS I was made to give or my voice to do further harm. But our local police officer said they couldn’t do much to stop them, we just need to be careful. I don’t believe it. Those guy might be from outside of the country, their accent were kind of India or Mexico, not sure, but I can recognize at least the “Jeffrey Brown” guy, if any organization of international law force try’s to do something. I Hope my notes can help those who are like me that don’t watch much TV news or crime movies or have been ignorant about the new ways of crime.
contreras
November 21, 2019
I received this call yesterday and the same day I was applying for a job and used my social and drivers license in the process, so I thought it was related. So I gave him my last 4 digits like a idiot and now I’m freaking out. What do I do? What can they do all they got is the last 4?
Evieperon
November 21, 2019
The same thing happened to me yesterday.they called from 206-415-7296.
redtruck
November 21, 2019
This is a scam! I recieved an automated message from the number 1-844-344-9420. This is what it said. 'The nature behind this call is to inform you about a suspension notice we have received against you social security number by the federal crime and investigation department. We need to talk to you as soon as possible. Again this call is from Social Security Administration. Number to reach department is 844-344-9420. "
doughnutqueen
November 21, 2019
I just got a call about being sued by the SSA by a foreign man and he immediately hung up on me when I asked who he was calling from the second time. 469-729-4923
Scam call
November 21, 2019
Scam call from TN 931-283-3052 saying that state of TX is looking for me for all kinds of crimes, fraud, etc...
Lala
November 21, 2019
I just got a call like this from a similar number and thought I'd post it so everyone can watch for it as well. The number is 800-724-8913.
Wolf
November 21, 2019
I just insult the scammer left and right and not allow them to speak a word. Its fun.
zenobia
November 21, 2019
received ss # call today 11-21-2019 stating my number has been involved in a crime the number that called me is 469-729-4923
Emma
November 21, 2019
This is my latest caller threatening even that I will even go to jail. Phone number( 312)428-4380 is a social security scam.
FL Paddler
November 21, 2019
Phone numbers that they are using: 800-403-3909 807-112-2704
Concerned
November 21, 2019
I don't even get mad anymore. I get even! They call me all the time. I just play along and make them mad. When they ask for my SSN I always say 012-34-5678. The crazy thing is that they really must write it down and a lightbulb comes on and then they get mad at me . Then if the number allows, I call them back and bug them throughout the day. The number they called me on was 1 855 986 0211. Dont give them your info!
Princerenita1122
November 21, 2019
I just got a call also and when I pulled up social security administration they hung up 18007468289 18007085693
karl g
November 21, 2019
I now have more phone scam calls than personal calls in my voice mail box every day. All of them threatening me with arrest by federal agents of the SSA. These crooks are obviously operating successfully and with impunity. Phone companies need to be held more accountable. They will continue to do little to nothing to prevent these thieves unless there are federal lawsuits. Their negligence to develop the scammer screening technology that could shut these enterprises down is aiding and abetting fraud against vulnerable people. This is a kind of corruption because these telecommunications businesses are clearly profitting by selling phone services to these criminal organizations.
Tired of junk calls
November 21, 2019
I get 2-5 calls daily. From SS, Credit card, Student loan, IRS. From all over the country. I have even gotten one from. Russia.. . My veterinarian call me a few day ago and for some strange reason the # said Iran. I was not the only one that told her about the #...
RIPPED OFF
November 21, 2019
469-9000931 is posing as Social Security Administration. Please do not fall for this. THIS IS FRAUD!!!!!Social Security Administration FRAUD ##
antoinette
November 21, 2019
today, Nov 21, 2019, they called 7 times from 9am to 3 pm with a recorded message I needed to return their call. They said my ss number would be voided if I didn't contact them. the number is: 813-815-4175. When I finally called, I was asked to give my name, and then was told I was 75 or older, and needed to give them my ss#. I Said I wouldn't unless they could really identify themselves. They said "we will send you a letter", and abruptly hung up.
Tien Truong
November 21, 2019
(866)305-9691, I was called 8 times by this number with the threat voice mail.
tortured1956
November 21, 2019
I received a message from 833-834-0057 telling me that my SSN is being suspended and ignoring the information would be considered an intentional attempt to avoid intentional attempt to avoid initial appearance before the magistrate judge for a federal criminal offense. I called back saying "you are on a recorded line" and they hung up. Scammers.
MS53
November 21, 2019
Beware of the number (347) 408-1051. They claim they are the Social Security Adminstration (the Indian on the line couldnt even say it correctly). I believe it's a Queens, NY number.
sue
November 21, 2019
Just received a call from 469-394-2354 saying they were with the government and my SS# was being used fraudulently in Houston, Texas. It was a recording of a lady's voice and she said to press #! to speak to an agent. I took a minute to look at caller ID and she yelled at me very defensively, to Press 1 NOW. Then I was sure it was a scam. I hung up but can't find anything on that number online.
Norma jean
November 21, 2019
I have been getting phone calls from the same phone every day. 207 352 1676 they leave a message saying if I dont call them back they will issue a warrant for my arrest they are an investigator with the FBI an working for social security my social security number has been tracked an has been working fraud if I didnt pay them I was going to federal prison. I called them back a female voice pretend that she was answering for fraudulent fbi service for social security an could she help me... I said well what are you doing???? I said anyone with a brain knows you dont get a phone call from anyone of these departments they knock on your door. You called me an threaten me I am going get to the bottom of who you are an your games an who all is involved I have your recordings dont call me back stop calling me... she yells in my ear like some spoiled brat on drugs telling me you should have not called me.. why did you call me. I hung the phone up. I us my phone for business an personal. I take affaince to some one calling me threaten me telling me I better give them.some.money. I have had enough this is daily an no one has put a stop to this number I want people arrested I am not playing.....
RG
November 21, 2019
I just receive a call today with the same message from 1-800-087-1245 another scammer
Mike
November 21, 2019
I just got 2 missed calls today from unknown callers , 1:27pm from +1 (866) 304 9624 and at 4:10pm from 1 (866) 792 7153 both left a voicemail that they’re from law enforcement agency and that my SSN has been suspended on immediate basis as they have received a suspicious trail of information on my name and have to freeze my benefits permanently if I don’t call their representative.
E-Liz
November 22, 2019
call came from 800 956 4888
Joe (GA)
November 22, 2019
Just received a call similar to the one above but from a different number (443-227-5683.
UGH!
November 22, 2019
Scammers are saying your Social Security number (SSN) has been involved in a crime. It's going to be deactivated and to call back at 817-349-3829.
JMatt
November 22, 2019
Here's another number: 785-328-4546. (Auto)Transcribed Message is as follows: This is an official final notice from Social Security Administration. The reason of this call is to inform you our department has decided to suspend your social security number and file a lawsuit against you as long as we have received an suspicious activity on your social to get more information. Please call on our department number 785-328-4546. I repeat 785-328-4546. Thank you.
fortitudodei
November 22, 2019
Called from a San Antonio, TX number 210-750-4563 and left a generic voicemail message saying my name and social security has been linked to a crime and to call back immediately before they proceed with legal actions
Deuceknigh1
November 22, 2019
I receive Robo calls saying “my SS number is going to be suspended and an arrest warrant has been issued. Press 1 to speak to a representatives.” Funny thing is, I press one and ask them for the account or file number to enter the motion into Court, also hand told them I’m recording them and my Attorney is present. They don’t speak good English , nothing against those that don’t, but after they stammer around my question about a file number or case # they hang up. It’s always a Toll free number, it is soo fake. If it was the real SSA. They’d make sure you’d have the case number in order to ensure the right person paid or was credited with whatever their supposed concern is. P.S. The police don’t call and tell you that you have a warrant , they just arrest you. Don’t worry about false threats. Call the SSA and think about the common sense of the way things are in this country and document everything if faced with a real issue. Because they certainly will have documents to back up their end and documents you can verify are real .
V Brown
November 22, 2019
I wanted to alert you to the number 1-800-944-0383. I was almost positive it was a scam but pressed "1" anyway to talk to a person and suss this out. I said "I got this call about my SSN being suspended, and I'm pretty sure it's a scam. I'm not going to give out my SSN" and a man said angrily "Don't give it out and don't call me again" (?!) When I called the number back out of curiosity what it would say for incoming calls, it started prompting me about whether someone over the age of 50 lived in my household, to press 1, etc. (not sure what the prompts were after--I hung up). This is absolutely a scam. Please do not give out any of your info on the phone. I hope this is helpful and that someone can trace this phone number back to a person/group that is scamming people.