The Social Security Administration (SSA) has issued an urgent warning to retirees, citing a “sharp increase” in fraudulent emails.
The emails aim to steal personal data, including financial information.
The fraudulent emails appear to come from the SSA and claim to offer access to the recipient’s Social Security statement. However, when a user clicks, it hacks their personal data and causes financial loss.
Fake emails are very convincing because they copy official logos, use similar colors and imitate the same language to fool people.
Some emails also claim to offer “information about the annual cost of living adjustment.” Others warn of a “potential error in your most recent report,” prompting recipients to download the “security update tool.”
After clicking on the malicious link, the malware gets installed in the system and redirects users to a fake website that steals personal information.
How to spot a fake email
The SSA states that the official email address ends in “.gov.” Typically, fake emails contain warning signs such as:
- Emails suggesting you have a Social Security statement to download
- Hyperlinks or attachments called statements or documents
- Urgency to act immediately
- Addresses that do not end in “.gov”
What to do if you receive a fake email?
If you receive a scam email, do not respond at all. Delete the email from your inbox immediately. Report the incident to the SSA Office of Inspector General and file a complaint with the FBI.
