FAIRFIELD — Chief Robert Kalamaras and the Fairfield Police Department would like to provide residents with information on common Social Security scams and what to do if they receive one.
The Social Security Administration will never threaten, scare or pressure you to take immediate action regarding your social security. Oftentimes, scammers will pretend to be government employees, such as Social Security workers, and threaten people and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest or other legal action. Residents should note that the Social Security Administration will never call you and alert you of a problem in this way.
The Social Security Administration 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.
“While the Fairfield Police Department hasn’t received any recent reports of Social Security scams in the community, we would like to ensure that residents are equipped with the knowledge needed to prevent themselves from falling victim to this type of scam,” Chief Kalamaras said.
Fairfield Police share the following tips, courtesy the Social Security Administration, to help residents recognize a scam call:
- The Social Security Administration will never call, text or email you to threaten to suspend your Social Security number, even if they have part or all of your Social Security number
- They will never demand immediate payment from you or pressure you for personal information
- Residents will never be required to give payment in the form of cash, gift cards, prepaid debit cards or wire transfer
- They will also never warn you of arrest or legal action, or threaten to seize your bank account
- Residents will never be pressured for personal information and information regarding bank accounts
- Residents should be mindful of those trying to gain your trust by providing fake “documentation,” false “evidence,” or the name of a real government official
Chief Kalamaras would like to share the following steps to take if you believe you are dealing with a potential scammer:
- Try to stay calm. Do not provide anyone with money or personal information when you feel pressured, threatened or scared.
- Hang up or ignore it. If you receive a suspicious call, text or email, hang up or do not respond. Government employees will not threaten you, demand immediate payment, or try to gain your trust by sending you pictures or documents.
- Report Social Security-related scams. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email that mentions Social Security, ignore it and report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG). Do not be embarrassed if you shared personal information or suffered a financial loss.
Anyone with additional questions should contact the Fairfield Police Department at 203-254-4800.
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