HANSON — Chief Michael Miksch and the Hanson Police Department would like to provide residents with information on common Social Security telephone scams and what to do if they receive one.
This week Hanson Police received a call at the station that featured a computer-generated voice saying there was a “problem with your Social Security Number.” The voice indicated that the person who answered the call could face legal problems if they did not respond.
The Social Security Administration will never call you and alert you of a problem in this way. Scammers will often pretend to be government employees who may threaten you and may demand immediate payment to avoid arrest or other legal action.
Hanson Police share the following tips, courtesy the Social Security Administration, on recognizing a scam call:
- The Social Security Administration will never threaten to suspend your Social Security number or demand immediate payment from you.
- Residents will never be required to give payment in the form of cash, gift cards, prepaid debit cards or wire transfer.
- Never provide gift card numbers over the phone.
- Social Security may email or text you about programs and services, but will never ask for a return call. Social Security only sends emails or text messages if you have opted to receive them and only in limited situations.
- Be aware of calls that come from unknown numbers.
Anyone who receives a call from a suspected scammer should immediately hang up. Calls can be reported to the Office of the Inspector General here. Anyone with additional questions can contact Hanson Police at 781-293-4625.
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