2. Do not react to unsolicited text messages, phone calls, or email
According to the Office of the Inspector General, legitimate Social Security representatives will never pressure you to act immediately. If someone tells you to click on a link or pay a fee right now, it's a scam.
If you're worried about potential issues with your benefits or want to check if a call you receive is legitimate, simply hang up and call the SSA yourself or visit your local Social Security office directly. For reference, the national 800 number for the Social Security Administration is 1-800-772-1213.
3. Do not provide personal information
Do not provide bank account or identity information to anyone who has reached out to you via phone, text, or mail. Such requests are usually fraudulent.
If you think the request might be legitimate, get the agency's name, look up the phone number independently, and call back.
4. Securely store your Social Security number
Sharing your Social Security number inadvertently can expose you to identity theft -- even if you haven't received a fraudulent phone call or text.
Memorize your Social Security number and leave the card in a safe place. Do not carry it with you. Don't write your number down or say it in public either.
5. Regularly check your credit reports
If you are a victim of identity theft, you'll see new, unfamiliar credit accounts pop up on your credit report. Checking your credit activity regularly helps you catch problems early, as well as minimizing the financial and legal consequences.
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