“How to Identify, Report, and Protect Against Social Security Fraud”

“`html

Types of Social Security Fraud

Social Security provides financial security to many Americans, but it also attracts criminals. Thousands of Americans report Social Security scams and fraud each quarter. With 70 million people receiving Social Security payments as of 2021, scams are not uncommon. Victims can face anything from minor inconveniences to significant financial losses.

Social Security fraud occurs when an unauthorized party uses your Social Security number for financial gain. It also includes providing false information to receive benefits. Here are some common types of Social Security fraud:

Representative Payee Fraud

The Social Security Administration (SSA) may appoint a representative payee to manage payments for someone unable to do so. Fraud occurs if the representative misuses the funds.

Social Security Impersonation Fraud

Scammers may pose as SSA employees to obtain Social Security numbers and personal information for identity theft or to demand payments.

Purchase or Sale of Social Security Data

Criminals may buy and sell Social Security information on the black market or dark web.

Social Security Number Misuse

Fraudsters can use your Social Security number to apply for benefits, unauthorized work, loans, or other financial accounts.

Benefits Fraud

Providing false information to receive Social Security benefits or collecting benefits in someone else’s name is considered fraud.

Concealing Personal Information

Hiding information that affects Social Security benefits, such as work activity or financial assets, is fraudulent.

Illegitimate Deceased Benefits Fraud

Continuing to accept benefits after a beneficiary’s death without notifying the SSA is fraud.

Insider Fraud

SSA employees who misuse their access to receive payments or help others do so are committing fraud.

How to Know if Someone Is Using Your Social Security Number Fraudulently

Signs of Social Security fraud include:

• Unrecognized accounts or applications on your credit report.
• Issues claiming government benefits.
• Inability to file your tax return because someone else has used your Social Security number.
• Inaccurate Social Security earnings statements.
• Your Social Security number appearing in a dark web scan.
• Unrecognized changes to your account addresses.
• Receiving mail or calls about accounts you didn’t open.
• Rejection of loan or credit card applications you should qualify for.
• Unrecognized notifications from the IRS or SSA.

How to Report Social Security Fraud

If you suspect Social Security fraud, report it to the Office of the Inspector General. You can call the hotline or report online. For cybercrime, file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit reports with Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. A fraud alert instructs creditors to verify your identity before processing new credit applications. A security freeze limits access to your report.

Block electronic access to your Social Security account through the SSA. Notify your financial institutions if your accounts were compromised. If you lost money, file a report with local law enforcement.

How to Protect Yourself From Social Security Fraud

To protect yourself from Social Security fraud:

• Keep your Social Security card in a safe place, not in your wallet.
• Regularly check your financial accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity.
• Be cautious of unexpected calls claiming to be from Social Security. The SSA will not threaten, ask for payment, or request credit/debit card numbers over the phone.
• Beware of emails, texts, or calls asking for personal information. Verify the organization’s contact information independently before responding.
• Legitimate government agencies or banks will not contact you via social media.
• Recognize scam red flags, such as pressure to act immediately, payment requests over the phone, and threats of legal action.
• Be skeptical of calls from unknown numbers. Scammers can spoof phone numbers to appear legitimate.
• Create an online Social Security account to monitor your records.
• Shred documents containing personal information.
• Review the SSA’s scam alerts for the latest fraud tactics.
• Add blocks to your Social Security account to prevent unauthorized access.

If you provided personal information or sent money to a scammer, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s hub for advice on what to do next.

More Prevention Measures for Peace of Mind

Undoing the damage from fraud can be a lengthy and stressful process. Signing up for free credit monitoring can help you quickly identify suspicious activity and take action.

For any mortgage service needs, contact O1ne Mortgage at 213-732-3074. We are here to assist you with the best service possible.

“`