People who obtain benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA), including recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), must often deal with scams that target them as potentially vulnerable. And as time has gone on, these scammers have become more sophisticated in their methods, which can make them harder to fend off. But how can you protect yourself from Social Security fraud, and what happens if you are targeted by a scam?
What is Social Security Fraud?
In simple terms, Social Security fraud is a type of crime that attempts to convince people to hand over their Social Security benefits, or give up personal identifying information, so they can profit off of it. They may also try to convince people to pay them in a way that can be difficult to trace or recover afterwards, such as convincing them to purchase and transfer gift cards. When people are victims of this kind of fraud, it can not only cost them money and safety, it can also endanger their ability to get benefits in the future.
Why Does Social Security Fraud Happen?
Sadly, Social Security fraud is relatively commonplace because recipients of Social Security benefits are often considered vulnerable. Elderly people and those with disabilities can already struggle with psychological or cognitive issues, and thus may be less likely to recognize the signs of a scam when they are targeted. If they are not careful, they may become the victims of fraud without ever realizing they were scammed.
What Does Social Security Fraud Look Like?
Social Security fraud can take many forms. Often, this involves impersonating members of the SSA, or trying to convince Social Security recipients (including people who get SSDI or SSI benefits) that their benefits are set to expire. They may create fake identification to build trust, and often use high-pressure tactics to convince people to go along with whatever they are planning. Often, they either promise rewards (such as increased benefits) for going along with them, or threaten punishment (such as losing benefits or facing legal action) for failing to cooperate, and typically try to demand immediate action rather than waiting patiently.
What Should You Do?
If you think you may have been targeted by Social Security fraud, you should report it to the SSA. Always remember to not give out personal information to someone you do not know or trust, and know that a real SSA representative will always allow you to call back later. That way, you can minimize the risk that you are taken advantage of.
If you or a loved one need assistance applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, it is important that you seek the guidance of an experienced Social Security Disability benefits lawyer. The lawyers at Sullivan & Kehoe, LLP have over 50 years of combined experience between its attorneys and are available to you or your loved one in obtaining Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. To schedule a consultation with our New York Social Security Disability benefits lawyers, call (631) 823-7155.
