AARP Pennsylvania is taking a proactive stance in raising awareness about the prevalent issue of Social Security fraud. In today’s digital age, where identity theft is rampant, understanding the risks and implementing preventive measures to safeguard one’s Social Security number is of utmost importance.
The organization has released a Fraud Watch Alert video on YouTube, highlighting the urgency of educating individuals about Social Security fraud. According to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for Social Security, there were approximately 360,000 complaints related to impersonation and scams in 2021. Although this marked a decrease from previous years, the persistence of scam calls targeting Social Security numbers remains a significant concern.
Mary Bach, a dedicated volunteer and Chair of the Consumer Issues Task Force at AARP Pennsylvania, underscores the critical need for awareness about Social Security fraud. She emphasizes that by arming themselves with knowledge about the deceptive tactics employed by scammers, individuals can effectively safeguard their personal and financial well-being. Fraudsters often masquerade as representatives from the Social Security Administration to deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information.
In addition to recognizing the warning signs of fraud, AARP Pennsylvania advises individuals to take proactive measures such as installing robocall-blocking apps on their phones and regularly monitoring their Social Security accounts online. Any suspicious activities should be promptly reported to the authorities.
David Kalinoski, Associate State Director and Fraud Lead at AARP, emphasizes the rarity of genuine contact from the Social Security Administration without prior interaction. He urges individuals to question the legitimacy of unsolicited communications and underscores the importance of utilizing tools like robocall blockers to prevent falling victim to scams.
In conclusion, AARP Pennsylvania urges the public to exercise caution and skepticism when receiving unsolicited calls claiming to be from the Social Security Administration. Reporting any suspicious activities promptly and adopting a vigilant approach are crucial steps in combating Social Security fraud.
