Fraud Watch Wednesday Scam Alert: Phony Offers of Help With Social Security Applications

The AARP Fraud Watch Network Scam Alert for June 29, 2016. 

Scammers often try to get personal information over the phone by pretending to help with applications for Social Security disability benefits. Even if you haven’t started an application, you could be contacted.

These fraudsters are taking a shot, hoping you have started an application, and that you’ll give them personal information when they call. They might ask you to give or confirm your Social Security number or bank account numbers. Don’t fall for it! Never give your Social Security number or bank account numbers to someone who calls you.

If you do have disability benefits and get a call offering help with your benefits, hang up and call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.

Be a fraud fighter!

If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Report scams to your local law enforcement.

Contact the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or 1-877-908-3360 to report a scam or for more information on scam and fraud prevention.