Protecting Your identity is Important to Us

domestic-violence

Social Security is committed to protecting your identity and information. We often say that our online services are convenient, cost-effective, and secure to use.

We know that in certain instances, like for victims of domestic violence, completely blocking access to your information may be necessary. If you are a victim of domestic violence, Social Security may be able to block access to the electronic record we keep on you. Our online Block Electronic Access service is a resource for those who need extra security. It’s also available to certain victims of identity theft. Continue reading

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Don’t Let Scammers Prey on Your Generosity

natural disastersNatural disasters bring out the best in people. The ever-present generosity of Americans is front and center right now, as we try to help the victims of the Louisiana flood. Millions have given their time and donated to the relief funds and charities.

Unfortunately, times like these also bring out people looking to profit from others’ misfortune. For example, by creating fake charities and devising other ways to take advantage of donors. Continue reading

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Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft

indentity theftEvery year, millions of Americans become victims of identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personally identifiable information and pretends to be you. They can use this information to open bank or credit card accounts, file taxes, or make new purchases in your name.   Continue reading

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Disability Application Scammers

Graphic of a computer screen with ones and zeros on the screen and the word identity.The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is alerting people about the dangers of identity theft, specifically in instances where people have started an application for disability benefits. Scammers try to get personal information from applicants by pretending to help complete applications. For example, these scammers may ask you to give, or confirm, your Social Security number or bank account numbers.

Don’t become an identity theft or phishing victim. You can read the FTC’s advice on how to protect yourself while applying for benefits here.

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DoD Medical Data Available Almost Instantaneously

picture of a woman doctor on a laptopSocial Security is always finding new ways to provide world-class service. Social Security started receiving Service member, Veteran, and eligible family members medical records electronically from the Department of Defense (DoD) using health information technology (health IT) leveraging the eHealth Exchange. This latest improvement speeds processing times of disability applications. The disability case processing sites can receive medical records from DoD almost instantaneously.

Continue reading

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Scammers fake Social Security email

warning.scam.alertThe subject line says “Get Protected,” and the email talks about new features from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that can help taxpayers monitor their credit reports, and know about unauthorized use of their Social Security number. It even cites the IRS and the official-sounding “S.A.F.E Act 2015.” It sounds real, but it’s all made up.

It’s a phishing email to get you to click on a scammer’s link. If you do, a scammer can install Continue reading

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