Social Security Scam Calls: Your Number Isn't Suspended
Callers say your Social Security number is suspended or linked to a crime. It isn't, and the agency doesn't call to say so.
The common scripts
- "Your Social Security number has been suspended because of suspicious activity."
- "Your number was used in a crime, and your benefits will stop."
- "You are owed a cost-of-living increase. Confirm your details."
The caller ID may show the real Social Security number, because caller ID can be faked.
What to know
- A Social Security number can't be "suspended."
- The agency won't threaten you with arrest, or demand payment by gift card, cash, wire or cryptocurrency.
- Never give your SSN, bank details or a verification code to someone who called you.
What to do
- Hang up and don't call back the number that called you.
- To reach the agency, use the number on its website. See the Social Security entry in our official numbers, or sign in to your own online account.
- Report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General and the FTC.
Sources
Reviewed October 2026. Rules and scam tactics change; check the official pages for the latest.
Check a number
Got a number you don't recognize? Look it up to see where it started and whether it looks risky.
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- How to Block Scam Calls and Report Them