It’s National Consumer Protection Week
Reading Time: 1 MinuteLast Updated: March 10, 2016
Looking to protect yourself from fraud, identity theft, and scams? Maybe you’re wondering about the best way to use credit, how to shop for a used car, or maximize your security online.
Part of our commitment to bringing you superior service includes always looking for ways to help protect your identity and information. And not just during National Consumer Protection Week — March 6-12, 2016 — but all year round. National Consumer Protection Week is a coordinated campaign that encourages you to take full advantage of your consumer rights and make informed decisions
It’s one of Social Security’s highest priorities to protect the privacy and security of the personal information we maintain on you and other Americans. You can rest assured that doing business with us online is both safe and secure.
Security is our middle name and we take it seriously!
The agency’s benefit programs are far-reaching and complex, which means that preventing, detecting, and combatting fraud, waste, and abuse are ongoing challenges. We can’t prevent every instance of fraud any more than law enforcement can prevent all crimes. However, we aggressively investigate potential instances of fraud and pursue prosecution of those who commit it. This is where we need your help the most. If you suspect fraud, report it online, or call the fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
On our website, we provide you valuable information about safeguarding against fraud, phishing scams, and protecting your identity. Visit today for more information. Also, visit www.ncpw.gov to learn how to get free consumer education materials and read the latest from consumer protection experts.
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About the Author
Doug Walker, Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Deputy Commissioner, Office of Communications
Comments
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J. M.
What can be done by SSA once a persons SS# has been used fraudulently to change the SS#? Can SSA put an alert to avoid further fraudulent use?
V.V.
Hello J. If you think someone is using your Social Security number, there are several actions you can take. Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions web page about this topic. Thanks!
jeanette w.
as of jan the 23rd 2020 yes just the other day,,i got a cell phone call from a 1800-559-2554.says he was from social security and my number has been reported stolen and gave his badge number 2256.i said sure you are frudulent ss doesn’t do this and he hung up on me JUST TO WARN YOU ALL STUPID PHONE SCAMS ARE READY FOR THIS NEW YEAR SO DONNOT ANWSER ANYTHING TO THESE PESTS
Georgie B.
Am having difficulty trying to move my Social Security check from my current bank to a new bank. I’ve tried calling but with no success. I thought there might be
category for this type of question, but I cannot locate it.
I’ve just lost my husband and am trying to get my own ducks in order. Can you help me?
V.V.
Thanks for contacting us, Georgie. We are very sorry for your loss. If you’re receiving Social Security benefits (retirement, survivors, or disability), you can start or update your direct deposit information by using your my Social Security account. See our Frequently Asked Questions web page for more information. We hope this helps.
Patricia A.
I received a call that my social security had an illegal action taken against it. The phone number is 443-345-2223 from Aberdeen MD. I did not answer. Just passing it on.
R.F.
Thank you for sharing, Patricia. SSA employees occasionally contact citizens by telephone for customer-service purposes. An SSA employees may call you in limited situations, such as if you recently filed a claim or have other Social Security business that are pending. In only a few limited special situations, usually already known to the citizen, an SSA employee may request the citizen to confirm personal information over the phone. If a person has questions about any communication—email, letter, text or phone call—that claims to be from SSA, please contact your local Social Security office, or call Social Security’s toll-free customer service number at 1-800-772-1213, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, to verify its legitimacy (TTY number at 1-800-325-0778). Thanks.
Rene r.
Thank you very much for your support.
R.F.
Thank you for contacting us, Rene. The “my Social Security” authentication system requires address verification as one of the essential criteria for issuing an account. At this time you must have a U. S. mailing address to create or to access your online account from outside the United States. People with APO/FPO/DPO addresses can create an account overseas, but our system does not support registration and account creation for users with a foreign address yet. When living abroad please contact your local U.S. embassy or consulate for any assistance related to your Social Security benefits. Also, our Office of International Operations home page provides more information to assist our customers living abroad. We hope this information helps!
Rene r.
Hallo!dear personel, .? I’ve in Germany for 25 years and l,don’t have a valid us address in America any longer,how do l create an account from here?thanyou.
Crystal R.
My social security card was stolen, I have an online tracker, and well someone in my town is spending my money… my only income. I’d like to know who and get a replacement card
R.F.
Hi Crystal, if you think someone is using your Social Security number, there are several actions you can take. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Sheila C.
State of Ky. Single, not able to work any job, draw SSI, (draw 730.00)per month, with Medicare & Medicaid.. turning 62 in Aug, ,,SSA have already set up a call appointment to switch me from SSI to Social Security benefits & said I would be drawing (aprox 925.00) per month.. Question:: will my Medicaid benefits end?? or would I still be on Medicare & Medicaid.. Doctors have found a mass & talking about surgery.. that’s why I am asking.. Thank you..
R.F.
Hi Sheila. Medicare is our country’s health insurance program for people age 65 or older. However, certain people younger than age 65 can qualify for it. For security reasons, we do not have access to personal records in this venue, and we strongly suggest you contact the local Social Security office or call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. for further assistance and an explanation about your Medicare benefits. Please contact your local Medicaid office for questions related to your medical assistance benefits.