Social Security Number Suspended Scam

An automated call or voicemail claims your Social Security number has been "suspended" due to suspicious activity and instructs you to press a number or call back, aiming to extract your SSN and other personal details.

An automated call or voicemail claims the victim's Social Security number has been linked to criminal activity and "suspended," instructing them to press a number to speak with an "agent." The agent claims the only way to protect their remaining benefits or avoid arrest is to verify their SSN, date of birth, and bank information, or to move their money to a "safe" government-controlled account — which is really an account the scammer controls, or simply a pretext to collect enough personal data to commit identity theft.

• A claim that your Social Security number has been "suspended" — this isn't something SSA does.
• Pressure to confirm your SSN or bank details over an unsolicited call.
• Instructions to move money into a new or "safe" account.
• Threats of arrest or loss of benefits for not complying immediately.

• The Social Security Administration cannot suspend your number and will never call to tell you so.
• Never give your Social Security number to an unsolicited caller.
• Hang up and call the SSA directly using their official number to check your account status.
• Report suspicious calls to the SSA Office of the Inspector General.