"Your Social Security Number Has Been Suspended" Robocall — Scam Explained
You received an automated phone call saying your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity, and you face arrest unless you press 1 to speak with an agent. The Social Security Administration does not suspend Social Security numbers, and they do not threaten arrest by phone. This robocall targets millions of Americans every day.
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How This Scam Works
Critical Risk — Your Social Security Number Cannot Be Suspended
The Social Security Administration does not suspend Social Security numbers, and they do not threaten arrest by phone. This robocall is a scam.
Note: This scam typically arrives via phone call, not email. If you received a suspicious email, forward it to check@scam.support for a free risk assessment. For phone scams, report to the FTC — see all reporting agencies.
You receive an automated phone call saying your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity, and you face arrest unless you press 1 to speak with an agent. If you press 1, you are connected to a scammer posing as an SSA agent who demands payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency to "reactivate" your number and avoid arrest.
According to the SSA's Office of the Inspector General, SSA impersonation scams are the most commonly reported government impersonation fraud in the United States. The SSA has repeatedly stated that Social Security numbers cannot be suspended, revoked, or deactivated, and that the SSA will never threaten arrest or demand payment by phone.
Red Flags
- Automated call says your SSN has been suspended — this is impossible
- Threatens arrest or legal action
- Asks you to press a number to speak with an agent
- Demands payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
- Caller ID may be spoofed to show an SSA phone number
What You Should Do
What To Do
- Hang up immediately
- Do not press any numbers
- Remember that SSNs cannot be suspended
- If concerned about your benefits, call the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213
- Report the call to the SSA OIG
Sources
- SSA Office of the Inspector General — Scam Alert — SSA impersonation scam warnings
- SSA — Protect Yourself from Social Security Scams — Social Security numbers cannot be suspended
- FTC Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book 2023 — Government impersonation scam reports