Fake 'transfer' to Social Security after a retailer call
A caller pretends to be a store, a bank, or another agency, then claims to transfer you to Social Security or its inspector general. That kind of transfer cannot happen, and it is always a scam.
How it works
The call may start with someone claiming to be from a well-known retailer, asking about a purchase you did not make. When you say it was not you, they 'transfer' you to a person who says they are from Social Security or the SSA Office of Inspector General. That person may claim your identity was stolen, send a long document to sign, tell you to keep the call secret, or promise a new Social Security number. They may also ask you to pay, share account details, or let them onto your device. SSA says a real company or agency cannot transfer your call directly to SSA or OIG.
Red flags
- Anyone claims to transfer you directly to Social Security or SSA OIG.
- They say your Social Security number is suspended, compromised, or being reissued.
- They tell you to keep the call confidential.
- They pressure you to sign papers, move money, or act immediately.
What to do
- Hang up. Do not press buttons to stay on the line or accept a transfer.
- If you are worried about a real Social Security issue, call SSA yourself at 1-800-772-1213 or use ssa.gov.
- If the first caller mentioned a purchase, call the store or your bank using a number you already have.
- Report the scam at ssa.gov/scam, and also at reportfraud.ftc.gov or ic3.gov.
Where to report it
- reportfraud.ftc.gov — the FTC's report form.
- ic3.gov — the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.