Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Social Security Weaad 2026 Scam Prevention - How to Protect Yourself
Social Security Weaad 2026 Scam Prevention - How to Protect Yourself

For World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2026, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has launched a national "Never Ever" campaign to protect older adults from government imposter scams. Financial losses for older adults have quadrupled in recent years. Scammers are now using sophisticated tools like artificial intelligence (AI) to mimic official government communications.

To prevent fraud, the government wants everyone to memorize three simple rules. Never ever will someone from the government:

  • Threaten your benefits: They will never say they will suspend your money if you do not pay them immediately.
  • Demand weird payments: They will never force you to pay using a gift card, cryptocurrency, payment app, or wire transfer.
  • Tell you to move money: They will never tell you that your bank account is unsafe and that you must move your funds to protect them.

Red Flags to Watch For

Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to cloud your judgment. Be on high alert if a caller, email, or text does any of the following:

  • Creates artificial urgency: They demand that you act right now.
  • Demands secrecy: They tell you not to speak with your family or friends.
  • Sends unexpected links: They text or email links claiming there is a problem with your Social Security number.

Proactive Prevention Steps

You can take immediate steps to safeguard your identity and benefits:

  • Create an online account: Set up your personal account on the official my Social Security website to lock your details and monitor your statement.
  • Add a trusted contact: Ask your bank or financial firm to add a trusted contact person to your accounts as a backup safety net.
  • Slow down and check: If you get a scary call, hang up. Call the agency back using an official number you found on a real government document.

How to Report Scams

If you or a loved one encounters a scammer, report it immediately to help authorities track them down:

  • Report Social Security Scams: Use the official SSA Office of the Inspector General reporting page.
  • Report General Fraud: Share details with the Federal Trade Commission.
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