The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a partnership with the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in honor of its sixth annual “Slam the Scam” day on March 6, 2024. This event is meant to help raise public awareness of Social Security imposters and other forms of fraud intended to target recipients of Social Security benefits, including people receiving disability benefits. Anyone who is targeted by these scams should notify the OIG at oig.ssa.gov.
SSA Seeks to Raise Awareness of Social Security Fraud
The SSA’s annual “Slam the Scam” day is meant to help raise public awareness of various forms of fraud that target recipients of Social Security benefits. These include retired people, as well as people who receive benefits from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The SSA estimated that victims lost around $577 million due to Social Security imposters and other similar scams.
The Signs of Social Security Fraud
Social Security fraud can take many forms, but often involves people pretending to be SSA agents to contact people over alleged emergencies. Using this method, they extract personal identifying information such as their name, address, Social Security number, or credit card number, which they use to defraud people. Other times, they may trick people into helping them hide or transfer funds from illegitimate enterprises, making them unwitting co-conspirators in money laundering.
The Dangers of Social Security Imposters
The dangers highlighted by the Stop the Scam event can be potentially serious for victims of Social Security fraud. They may find themselves having their Social Security benefits stolen by scammers, or they may lose access to their benefits while the fraud is being investigated. This may lead to serious financial difficulties while they sort out any legal issues caused by the fraudulent activity.
What You Should Do
If you have been the victim of Social Security fraud, you should report it to the OIG, who can investigate the claim on your behalf. If you have had difficulties accessing your Social Security disability benefits, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling disability benefit claims. They can help you explore potential legal options, and ensure you get the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
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.
