Social Security fraud or scams have become big business for those engaged in this illicit activity.

• This usually starts with the scammer calling you or sending you an email.
• The scammer almost always lies stating they are telephoning or emailing from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or another mythic government agency.
• The scammer then informs you of a  problem with your Social Security number or account and demanding one of several forms of immediate payment to correct this.
• Your caller ID may show a number that looks official.
• Documents sent to you via email may also look genuine. However, they are not.

Any communication asking you to pay a fine or a debt that you supposedly owe using gift cards that you are instructed to purchase, wire transfers, pre-paid debit cards, or by mailing cash is a fraud.

A SSA representative could potentially call you.

During that call and any communication you receive thereafter:

• the SSA representative will not threaten you,
• threaten to suspend your Social Security number,
• or demand immediate payment from you using any of the methods described above.

If you receive such a call hang up. If you receive such an email delete it. Furthermore, do not give this scammer any personal information. Then file a complaint with the SSA at OIG.SSA.GOV.

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Planning ahead is a gift to your loved ones!

Richard K. Abraham, Esquire

Mr. Abraham is an experienced attorney and founding member of the Law Office of Richard K. Abraham. The Sparks, MD office of the firm concentrates its practice in Estate Planning, Elder Law, Probate, Medical Assistance (Medicaid), Guardianship, Asset Preservation and Fiduciary Representation.

He is an active member in a number of professional organizations that focus on law, the senior community, and estate planning. He works with clients in Central Maryland, especially in Towson, Hunt Valley, Lutherville/Timonium, Parkville, White Marsh, Bel Air & Northern Baltimore City.

Schedule a consultation to help you and your loved ones.