Seniors are frequently targets of scammers who attempt to exploit their vulnerabilities. One popular scam that has been making the rounds lately is an impersonation scam involving doctored credentials.

How Does the Impersonation Scam Work?

The Social Security Matters Blog warns of the rise of this scam. How does it work? The scammer will contact the senior by phone, email, or even in person. They will then claim to be from a government agency or another credible source. The scammer may say that they need to verify the senior’s Social Security number or other personal information, or that they need to pay money to resolve an issue or receive a monetary reward of some kind.

It’s important to know that no government agency or credible source will ever contact a citizen and ask for personal information over the phone or via email.

If you are contacted by someone claiming to be from a government agency, do not give them any information. Instead, hang up the phone or delete the email. If you are contacted in person, ask to see their credentials. If they do not have any credentials, or if their credentials look fake or doctored in any way, do not give them any information.

The Seniors Center Blog

The Seniors Center Blog is here to warn you about this and other scams that target seniors. Stay informed and stay safe—and be to follow The Seniors Center on Twitter and Facebook for our latest updates!