US Government Warns Of Social Security Scams Using Fake Federal IDs

Government imposter scams now come with a new twist that has the potential to make them even more effective, as the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration (SSA) warns.

Fraudsters behind this type of scam (which commonly involves attempts to collect Social Security numbers) have also been at it for years, trying to trick potential victims into handing over their personal information or sending money.

Government imposter scams are widespread, and scammers’ tactics are constantly evolving.

Last year, victims reported losing over $174 million to government imposter scammers, with a median loss of roughly $1,250.

Fake IDs used to add legitimacy

According to reports received by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), the scammers’ tactics arsenal has been updated to include the use of fake IDs designed to look like those used by Federal employees.

“The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has received reports of phone scammers creating fake versions of the identification badges most Federal employees use to gain access to Federal buildings,” the warning reads.

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“The badges use government symbols, words, and even names and photos of real people, which are available on government websites or through Internet searches.”

To convince their targets that their identity and demands are legitimate, the scammers will email or text photos of the fake federal IDs.

“If you owe money to Social Security, the agency will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights,” the SSA Inspector General added.

“If you receive a letter, text, call or email that you believe to be suspicious, about an alleged problem with your Social Security number, account, or payments, hang up or do not respond.”

How to spot scams

Earlier today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also warned the public about incoming reports of scammers calling, texting, or emailing while posing as US government officials.

The FTC shared the following advice to help you spot and thwart scam attempts:

• Don’t trust caller ID. Scammers manipulate caller ID to look like the call is coming from an official government number. Look up the agency’s number yourself, if you’re concerned, and give them a call. But don’t use the number in caller ID.
• Government agencies like the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the Social Security Administration (SSA) won’t call, text, or email you to say that you owe money.
• Nobody legit will ever tell you to pay with gift cards, money transfers, or cryptocurrency.
• Never share personal information with anyone who contacts you. If you’re worried, look up the government agency’s information yourself to check with them.

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Inspector General Ennis recommends reporting such events via SSA’s website if a social security-related scam ever targets you.