Local News

Social Security Scammers Targeting Local Residents

Omak Police News Release

Jul 17, 2019

Social Security scam calls are on the increase in the local area. What does this mean for you? Omak Police Chief Jeff Koplin said the calls are recorded messages and the message is for you to provide personal information and the caller normally targets senior citizens.

The calls are requesting your help to remedy the problem: the caller says your bank account is at risk due to the illicit activity and the caller will help you keep it safe. Koplin said the caller or email threatens consequences of you Social Security number, if you do not provide a payment or personal information.

Here are several do’s and don’ts if receive a call:

Hang Up.
Be skeptical if caller says he’s “officer with the Inspector General of Social Security or an officer with local law enforcement.
Do set up your own Social Security account online and check it monthly.
Do install a robocall-blocking app on your smartphone and block any unwanted incoming calls.
Don’t call a phone number left on your voice mail be a robocaller.
Don’t assume a call is legitimate because it is a 1-880 number.
Don’t give your Social Security number. The SSA never requests information that way.

If you feel you have been compromised call SSA customer-service line at 1-800-772-1213. If your Social Security number has been stolen, file an identity theft reports with the Federal Trade Commission, they can help you develop a recovery plan.