New Jersey prosecutor warns residents about Social Security scam
Officials advise residents not to click links in unsolicited emails and instead visit the Social Security Administration's website directly.
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Officials are warning residents about a scam targeting people who receive Social Security benefits after reports surfaced in Middlesex County and across the country.
According to a fraud alert released by the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office, scammers are using unsolicited text messages, emails and phone calls to claim that there is an important update to a person's Social Security benefits or that a new statement is available. The messages often contain links to websites that closely resemble legitimate sites but include subtle typos or misspellings.
Authorities said scammers may use accurate personal information, such as a recipient's date of birth, to appear legitimate. Victims who click the links may be directed to fraudulent websites that request sensitive information, including Social Security numbers, bank account details or login credentials. The information can then be used to steal money or open accounts in the victim's name.
Officials advise residents not to click links in unsolicited emails and instead visit the Social Security Administration's website directly. They also recommend enabling two-step verification, avoiding the sharing of personal or financial information with untrusted sources, and reporting suspicious messages as spam.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized should contact their local police department. Residents can also report scams to the Federal Trade Commission and the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
