HARRISBURG, PA — The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Pennsylvania is intensifying its efforts to educate the public about the dangers of Social Security fraud. The initiative aims to arm Pennsylvanians, particularly seniors, with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect their personal and financial integrity against sophisticated scams.
The urgency of this campaign is underscored by a report from the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG), which documented around 360,000 complaints of impersonation and related scams in 2021 alone. Although these numbers mark a decrease from previous years, the persistence of scam calls, particularly those masquerading as official communications from the Social Security Administration, remains a significant concern.
Mary Bach, a dedicated volunteer and the Chair of AARP Pennsylvania’s Consumer Issues Task Force, emphasizes the critical role of awareness in combating these threats. “Knowledge is our best defense against the cunning strategies employed by fraudsters,” Bach notes. She highlights a common tactic wherein scammers pose as Social Security representatives to extract sensitive information from unsuspecting individuals.
The advice from AARP Pennsylvania extends beyond mere awareness. The organization advocates for proactive measures such as installing robocall-blocking applications on phones, diligently monitoring Social Security accounts online for any discrepancies, and promptly reporting suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
David Kalinoski, AARP Associate State Director and Fraud Lead, points out that genuine unsolicited contact from the Social Security Administration is exceedingly rare. “If you’re approached by someone claiming to be from the Social Security Administration without prior interaction, there’s a good chance it’s a scam,” Kalinoski warns. He stresses the importance of skepticism towards unexpected communications and recommends the utilization of available tools like robocall blockers and online account monitoring as essential practices in safeguarding one’s identity.
The implications of falling victim to Social Security scams can be devastating, particularly for seniors who often rely on these benefits as a primary source of income. Identity theft and financial fraud can lead not only to the loss of funds but also to long-term challenges in securing credit, medical services, and even employment.
AARP Pennsylvania’s call to action is clear: end unsolicited calls claiming to be from the Social Security Administration and report any dubious activities to law enforcement. By adopting a cautious and questioning stance, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of being ensnared by these scams.
For those seeking assistance or more information on how to protect themselves from fraud, AARP offers resources and support. Victims of scams or those concerned about potential fraud are encouraged to reach out to AARP at 1-877-908-3360 or visit their AARP Pennsylvania Fraud Resource Page.
As the battle against digital crimes continues, initiatives like AARP Pennsylvania’s educational campaign are vital in equipping the public with the knowledge and tools necessary to defend against the ever-evolving threat of Social Security fraud. Through vigilance and education, individuals can protect their hard-earned benefits and ensure their financial and personal security remains intact.
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