• Pretends to work for SSA, or another well-known agency, business, or organization
• Says there's a problem
• Pressures you for immediate payment or personal information
• Tells you to pay in a specific way

Threaten you with arrest or legal action unless you immediately pay

Demand unusual forms of payment like gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, gold, cryptocurrency, cash, or payment apps

Tell you to move your money to protect it

Demand secrecy or tell you not to discuss the call or message with anyone

"Your Social Security number has been suspended."

"You owe a fine. Pay immediately."

"Act now or your benefits will stop."

"Press 1 to speak with a federal agent."

PAUSE.
Take a deep breath and talk to someone you trust. 

PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION.
Be very cautious of any contact you did not initiate. 

PROTECT YOUR MONEY.
Never pay with gift cards, prepaid debit cards, cryptocurrency, gold/precious metals, or cash. 

HANG UP OR IGNORE IT.
Do not respond, click links, or open attachments.