The Social Security Administration is warning of an increase in fraudulent emails that appear to offer access to Social Security statements. These messages are not official and can lead to identity theft, financial losses, or the theft of personal information.

Scammers use logos and language that mimic official communications, but legitimate emails only come from addresses ending in “.gov”. To access your account, write directly ssa.gov/myaccount in your browser and do not click on links in unsolicited emails.

Common Warning Signs

• Messages indicating that your statement is ready to download
• Links or attachments that appear to be official documents
• Messages that create urgency or pressure to act immediately
• Email addresses that do not end in “.gov”

What You Should Do

• Do not click on links or open attachments in unexpected messages.
• Do not reply or provide personal information.
• Access your account by typing directly ssa.gov/myaccount in your browser
• Report suspicious emails immediately.

If You Believe You Were a Victim

If you clicked on a link, downloaded an attachment, or shared personal information:

• Stop all communication with the potential scammer.
• Contact your bank or financial institution to protect your accounts.
• Report the incident to the SSA OIG at oig.ssa.gov/report.
• File a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
• Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov.
• If you suffered a financial loss, contact the local police.

What the Social Security Administration Will Never Do

The SSA and the SSA OIG never:

• They will demand immediate payment
• They will send unsolicited attachments or direct links to download documents
• They will threaten arrest, legal action, or suspension of benefits for not paying immediately.
• They will request payments via gift cards, prepaid cards, bank transfers, cryptocurrencies, cash, or gold bars.
• They will offer to move your money to “protect” it

Stay Informed and Share This Information

Scammers often target older adults and vulnerable members of the community. The Social Security Administration recommends staying vigilant and sharing this information with family, friends, and neighbors.

For more information about Social Security-related scams or to report fraud, visit ssa.gov/scam.