Possible Social Security Identity Theft Scam

I've mentioned some specific scams identity thieves use in other posts, and I try to pass more along as I run across them. This one may just be a regional one at the moment, but I'm going to post information about it just in case. A number of citizens in Jonesboro, Arkansas, have reported receiving phone calls that they believe to be a possible identity theft scam.

The caller claims to be from the Social Security Administration and says that they can offer the client more Social Security benefits if the client lets the caller come to his house. So far, it looks like it's not fairing too well for the scammer. Most who reported the call said they told the caller no, and one person offered to call and check up on this first. The caller hung up. If this were legitimate, there would have been no problem with the client calling the administration to verify the offer.

The local Social Security Administration says they do not often make house calls. When they do go to someone's home, they send a letter letting the person know. They don't call and ask for permission in exchange for more benefits. Be careful who you allow in your home and what information you give to strangers.

This may be a local scam in Arkansas, but similar scams exist. Remember, be suspicious of anyone calling and asking for this information. The Social Security Administration or the IRS will not ask for information they should already have.