Your Social Security Number Won’t Be Suspended. EVER.

This notice is courtesy of AARP Fraud Watch Network and the U.S Inspector General.

The Social Security Office of the Inspector General has received reports that Social Security beneficiaries have received letters through the U.S. Mail stating their payments will be suspended or discontinued unless they call a phone number referenced in the letter. Scammers may then mislead beneficiaries into providing personal information or payment via retail gift cards, wire transfers, internet currency, or by mailing cash, to maintain regular benefit payments during this period of COVID-19 office closures.

As of Tuesday, March 17, 2020, local Social Security offices are closed to the public due to COVID-19 concerns. However, Social Security employees continue to work. Social Security will not suspend or decrease Social Security benefit payments or Supplemental Security Income payments due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Any communication you receive that says Social Security will do so is a scam, whether you receive it by letter, text, email, or phone call.

Reporting Social Security Scams If you receive a letter, text, call or email that you believe to be suspicious, about an alleged problem with your Social Security number, account, or payments, hang up or do not respond. Remember, best practice is: "Don't recognize the caller's number - don't answer that call." We encourage you to report Social Security scams using this dedicated (https://oig.ssa.gov) online form . (U.S. Inspector General's Office)

We want to keep you apprised of scams during this health crisis. SeniorNet at FSL-LI is looking forward to re-engaging with everyone for our next semester. SeniorNet @ FSL-LI Website