SOCIAL SECURITY SCAM

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is issuing a warning about a new tactic used by scammers. Individuals have reported receiving text messages on personal cell phones that appear to be coming from SSA. The texts warn about a problem with victims’ Social Security numbers and threaten legal action unless the recipients call to resolve the issue. If you receive a suspicious text message that appears to be from the SSA, please report it to the Senate Aging Committee’s Fraud Hotline at 1-855-303-9470. The Social Security Administration will never: • Threaten arrest or other legal action unless a fine is immediately paid; • Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment; • Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, or by mailing cash; or • Send official letters containing personal information via email.

CORONAVIRUS VACCINE SCAM

U.S. Senator Susan Collins, the Chairman of the Aging Committee, is warning seniors to be on guard against an emerging scam that seeks to capitalize on anxiety surrounding the coronavirus. The scheme is another variation of the government imposter scam. Criminals deceive victims by claiming to be from a U.S. public health agency, and they demand that the victims pay hundreds of dollars to ensure they will be eligible to receive a coronavirus vaccine - even though a vaccine does not currently exist. The con artists insist that the victims pay immediately via credit card or else they will be refused treatment in their doctor’s office or in a vaccine clinic. Anyone receiving this type of call should immediately hang up and report it to the Aging Committee’s Fraud Hotline at 1-855-303-9470.

COVID-19 STIMULUS CHECK SCAM

Scammers are trying to take advantage of the COVID-19 fears and claim to be calling about the stimulus package. The FCC has warned that many have received calls that claim you can get your money right away if you just give the caller your debit or credit card information. Scammers are claiming you qualify for $1,000 to $14,000 in relief from COVID-19 from the federal government. To protect yourself refuse to supply financial data in response to any email or phone call.