The Social Security Administration (SSA), in partnership with its Office of the Inspector General (OIG), have teamed up to raise awareness of Social Security fraud on “Slam the Scam” Day. This day, held on March 9, is meant to help people become more aware of the large number of scam artists that target Social Security recipients, including those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The goal is to help prevent vulnerable people from falling prey to fraud that can cost them money, time, and financial security.
What is Slam the Scam Day?
Slam the Scam Day is an event held by the SSA for the past four years that is meant to bring awareness to Social Security fraud. These scams are among the most common scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission every year, and target people who receive Social Security benefits, including the elderly and disabled. Thanks in part to awareness campaigns like these, the amount of money stolen in such scams have dropped by 30% between 2021 and 2022.
Why is This Event Being Held?
Slam the Scamd Day is being held because of how prevalent Social Security scams are. A disturbing number of Social Security beneficiaries, including those on SSDI and SSI benefits, fall victim to these scams every year, losing precious income and placing themselves at risk of greater financial consequences. With more awareness, more people can be saved from these scam artists, and more of them can be caught and punished.
What Does Social Security Fraud Look Like?
Social Security fraud typically takes the form of people pretending to be representatives of the SSA, who falsely threaten victims with the loss of benefits or potential arrest. To fix these alleged problems, they pressure victims into donating cash or gift cards, or require them to give up sensitive personal information. Once they have gotten what they want, they take their ill-gotten gains and run, leaving victims often hundreds or thousands of dollars poorer.
What Should You Do?
If you are contacted by someone claiming to be from the Social Security Administration and they claim that you will lose your Social Security benefits or face jail time, you are very likely being scammed. Instead of reacting right away and giving into their demands, hang up and call the official SSA number. You should also make a report to the OIG, including any information you have on who contacted you.
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.
