Beware Of False Social Security Or Medicare Advertisements

Scammers have become more aggressive and
sophisticated in the digital age. With millions of people relying on Social
Security and Medicare, scammers target audiences who are looking for legitimate
program and benefit information. Scammers sometimes try to scare people into
giving out their personal information. Never give someone who called you any
personal information unless you absolutely know who they are.

The law that addresses misleading Social Security
and Medicare advertising prohibits people or non-government businesses from
using words or emblems that mislead others. Their advertising can’t claim that
they represent, are somehow affiliated with, or are endorsed or approved by
Social Security or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (Medicare).

People are often misled by advertisers who use the
terms “Social Security” or “Medicare.” Often, these companies offer Social
Security services for a fee, even though Social Security offers the same
services free of charge. These services include getting:

o A corrected Social Security card showing a person’s married name;

o A Social Security card to replace a lost card;

o A Social Security Statement; and

o A Social Security number for a child.

If you receive misleading information about Social Security, send the complete ad, including the envelope (if applicable), to:

Office of the Inspector General Fraud Hotline

Social Security Administration

P.O. Box 17768

Baltimore, MD 21235

You can learn more about how we combat fraudulent advertisers by reading our publication What You Need to Know About Misleading Advertising at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN-05-10005.pdf.

You can also view and share our anti-fraud information at www.socialsecurity.gov/antifraudfacts as well as this YouTube video www.youtube.com/watch?v=8N96ORODZm8.

Remember, our information is easy to email and post on social media. Please let your loved ones know about these types of scams. Sharing this article with friends and family can save them from financial and emotional hardship.

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