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SSA · Scam safety1 min read

Social Security Offers Simple Tips to Spot and Avoid Scams

Social Security released simple tips to spot scams, since crooks often pose as the agency to get your money or your private details.

By the Dashline deskSource: Social Security Administration (.gov)
Social Security Offers Simple Tips to Spot and Avoid Scams
Photo: Kritzolina, CC BY-SA 4.0

Social Security has shared a set of simple tips to help people spot and avoid scams. The agency has a clear reason to speak up, because scammers often pretend to be Social Security. The guidance, called "No Tricks, Just Tips," was published by the agency on October 30, 2026.

How these scams work

Scammers often pose as government workers. Their goal is to pressure people into paying money or sharing private details. A fake call or text that claims to come from Social Security could cost you money or your identity. Knowing the warning signs before one arrives gives you a head start.

  • Someone claims to be a government worker
  • You feel pressure to act right away
  • You are asked to pay money
  • You are asked to share private details

What is not known

The full article was not available, so the agency's specific tips are not listed here. Rather than guess at them, the safest step is to visit ssa.gov directly and read the complete advice. Typing the address yourself is better than following a link in a call, text or email.

The advice matters to anyone who might receive a message claiming to be from Social Security. That could be a call, a text or any other contact that asks for money or personal information.

The takeaway

If someone claiming to be from Social Security pressures you to pay or share private details, stop and check ssa.gov yourself.

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