FTC warns of the phone call scam that states your SSN is suspended due to suspicious activity

• A new phone call scam purporting to come from a government agent and claiming that your Social Security Number is suspended has been observed.
• Social Security numbers do not get suspended. If you receive any phone call claiming that your Social Security number is suspended, then it is a scam.

What is the issue - A new phone call scam is underway that claims your Social Security Number is suspended due to suspicious activity.

Why it matters - This phone call scam targets your Social Security number, bank account number, and other personal information.

Worth noting

• FTC noted that this phone call scam is a variant of a government imposter scam.
• FTC confirmed that Social Security numbers do not get suspended.

The big picture

A new phone call scam purporting to come from a government agent and claiming that your Social Security Number is suspended has been observed. The robocall urges you to call a toll-free number and speak to a government agent to get the issue resolved. It then tricks you into providing your personal information as well as bank account details.

“The reason you have received this phone call from our department is to inform you that we just suspended your social security number because we found some suspicious activity. So if you want to know about this case just press 1. Thank you,” the robocall said, Bleeping computer reported.

“Law enforcement agencies to suspend your Social Security number on an immediate basis, as we have received suspicious trails of information in your name. The moment you receive this message, I need you to get back to me on my department division toll-free number that is 1-888-952-5554. I repeat 1-888-952-5554. Verify the last four digits of your Social Security number when you call to better assist you with this issue. Now, if I don’t hear a call from you, we will have to issue an arrest warrant under your name and get you arrested. So, get back to me as soon as possible. Thank you,” the robocall warns.

What should you do to remain safe?

• FTC warns individuals to never provide or confirm personal information over the phone, via email or on a website until you’ve checked the authenticity of the source.
• It is always best to contact government agencies directly via phone numbers and website addresses that you know to be legitimate.
• The number for the Social Security Administration is 1-800-772-1213, therefore, stay away from calling any number provided in a phone call or email.
• In case, anyone purporting to be from the government attempted to steal your personal information, immediately report it to the FTC.

The bottom line - Social Security numbers do not get suspended. If you receive any phone call claiming that your Social Security number is suspended, then it is a scam.

“Thing is, Social Security numbers do not get suspended. This is just a variation of a government imposter scam that’s after your SSN, bank account number, or other personal information,” The FTC said.