Congressman Dan Goldman: Slam The Scam

National Slam the Scam Day to Increase Consumer Awareness on Protecting Against Fraud and Theft of Personal Information

Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today raised awareness about Social Security scams and how members of the public can protect themselves and fight back against scams and fraud on the fourth annual National Slam the Scam Day.
 
Scammers prey on unsuspecting individuals by using deceptive tactics and persuasive techniques. In a government imposter scam, someone claims to be an SSA, or another government employee, and may ask for personal information, demand payment, or make threats. These scams primarily use the telephone, but scammers also use email, text messages, social media, or U.S. mail.
 
“Today and every day, I urge New Yorkers to stay aware and be vigilant for potential scammers and fraudsters,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “Legitimate government agencies will never suspend your Social Security number, threaten you with arrest, or promise a benefit in exchange for money. When in doubt, err on the side of caution! If you think a call, text, or email is suspicious, hang up or delete the text because protecting your Social Security number and personal information should always be the priority.”
 
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Social Security-related imposter scams are still the number one government imposter scam in the United States. In 2022, consumers reported losing more than $104.5 million to Social Security-related imposter scams. Progress is being made in combating government imposter scams; however, everyone must remain vigilant.
 
“National Slam the Scam Day helps protect consumers from these predators. Slamming the scam begins with consumers quickly taking a step to hang up the phone, or delete suspicious texts and emails, without responding to the scammers,” Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration, said. “That simple action remains the easiest and most effective method to avoid falling prey to these vicious scams.”
 
While safeguarding the public from financial fraud and scams is a goal every day, National Slam the Scam Day intensifies outreach efforts. Consumer awareness is the most effective method of deterring these crimes.
 
National Slam the Scam Day is an initiative created in 2020 to raise public awareness to combat Social Security-related scams. Social Security and its Office of the Inspector General partner with the United States Congress, other government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector to increase awareness about how to spot government imposter scams and stop scammers from stealing money and personal information.  
 
Visit ssa.gov/scam for more information on Social Security-related scams. The public is encouraged to report Social Security-related scams and fraud online at https://oig.ssa.gov/espanol.  
 
Other government imposter scams may be reported to the Federal Trade Commission https://www.ftc.gov/scams.

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