Scam Alert
- March 20th 2025
- Feature
An example of a new imposter email trying to lure potential Social Security retirement applicants to a fraudulent site.
Photo: Social Security Administration
Don’t Fall for New Social Security Scam
Press Release
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently warned of a new scam tactic where cyber criminals are using fake e-mails to lure potential retirement applicants to a fraudulent website to apply for benefits. The email appears to be from SSA with the subject line “Claim Benefits!” and states “Important: Apply For Your Social Security Benefits Starting in 2025.” The link within the phony email is disguised as SSA’s official website, “www.ssa.gov” or “www.socialsecurity.gov.” However, clicking on the link within the email redirects individuals to a fraudulent site. This email is not from SSA.
In this example, the email is from “Social Administration,” and reflects a “.com” personal or non-government email address. Government agencies always have “.gov” as part of their official email address. Always be cautious when responding to unsolicited emails that appear to be from an official government agency. The SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) recommends that you delete the email. Don’t click on links or respond to any text, email, phone call or letter that has characteristics of a scam.
The OIG indicated that scammers often use benefits, benefit increases, prizes, or problems to attract attention so they can entice or intimidate potential victims with their ploys. If you are a scam victim:
- Stop talking to the scammer. Notify your financial institutions and safeguard your accounts.
- Report Social Security-related scams to SSA OIG.
- Contact local law enforcement and file a police report.
- If you lost money, file a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center.
- Report other scams to the Federal Trade Commission.
- Keep financial transaction information and a record of all communications with the scammer.
