Middlesex Sheriff Warns About Social Security Scam

Middlesex County residents should be extra-cautious when answering the phone as the county sheriff's office warns about an ongoing Social Security scam. The Middlesex Sheriff's Office said a resident has reported a scammer posing in two phone calls as an official from the IRS and later from the MSO.

The scammer told the resident his Social Security number had been canceled because it had been compromised and used in Texas by criminals. He went on to say that the resident's bank accounts had also been frozen and that someone from the MSO would follow up with additional details.

Not long after the first call, the resident received a second call with a caller ID marked as the sheriff’s office telephone number. The person calling now posed as a member of the MSO and told the resident that two deputies would collect his old Social Security card and issue him a new card and number.

The MSO urges residents not to give their information over the phone, noting that these scams use spoofing technology to trick residents into thinking the calls are legitimate.

“It’s critically important for residents to be aware that their Social Security numbers cannot be canceled or suspended,” said Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian. “Fortunately, in this case, the resident felt something was amiss and followed up with our office to confirm this was a scam.”

Anyone who believes they have been the victim of this, or any, imposter scam is encouraged to contact their local police department. Individuals may also report the matter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/Information#crnt&panel1-1.