Skip to main content

A caller says that he’s from the government and your Social Security number (SSN) has been suspended. He sounds very professional. So you should do exactly what he says to fix things…right?

Wrong.

The FTC has gotten reports about scammers trying to trick people out of their personal information by telling them that they need to “reactivate” their supposedly “suspended” SSNs. The scammers say the SSN was suspended because of some connection to fraud or other criminal activity. They say to call a number to clear it up – where they’ll ask you for personal information.

Thing is, Social Security numbers do not get suspended. This is just a variation of a government imposter scam that’s after your SSN, bank account number, or other personal information. In this variation of the scheme, the caller pretends to be protecting you from a scam while he’s trying to lure you into one.

Here are a few tips to protect yourself:

  • Never give out or confirm personal information over the phone, via email or on a website until you’ve checked out whoever is asking you for it.
  • Do not trust a name, phone number, or email address just because it seems to be connected with the government. Con artists use official-sounding names and may fake caller ID or email address information to make you trust them. Besides, the government normally contacts people by postal mail.
  • Contact government agencies directly, using telephone numbers and website addresses you know to be legitimate.

If someone has tried to steal your personal information by pretending to be from the government, report it to the FTC.

 

Search Terms

It is your choice whether to submit a comment. If you do, you must create a user name, or we will not post your comment. The Federal Trade Commission Act authorizes this information collection for purposes of managing online comments. Comments and user names are part of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) public records system, and user names also are part of the FTC’s computer user records system. We may routinely use these records as described in the FTC’s Privacy Act system notices. For more information on how the FTC handles information that we collect, please read our privacy policy.

The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.

  • We won’t post off-topic comments, repeated identical comments, or comments that include sales pitches or promotions.
  • We won’t post comments that include vulgar messages, personal attacks by name, or offensive terms that target specific people or groups.
  • We won’t post threats, defamatory statements, or suggestions or encouragement of illegal activity.
  • We won’t post comments that include personal information, like Social Security numbers, account numbers, home addresses, and email addresses. To file a detailed report about a scam, go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

We don't edit comments to remove objectionable content, so please ensure that your comment contains none of the above. The comments posted on this blog become part of the public domain. To protect your privacy and the privacy of other people, please do not include personal information. Opinions in comments that appear in this blog belong to the individuals who expressed them. They do not belong to or represent views of the Federal Trade Commission.

scooter262
February 01, 2019
Recently, I have gotten several calls, all from 800 numbers, trying this scam. I block all the numbers, but they just switch. Isn’t there a way for phone company to stop these people from getting more numbers?
Canadians
February 01, 2019
Canadians I am from the north. I don't have SSN. That says it all. Joke of the day LOL
wend888
February 01, 2019
I got 2 of these calls today, but my phone was on silent so they went to voicemail. Both were recordings saying my SS # was suspended due to suspicious activity, and I should push 1 to learn more about it. (Insert eye roll here!) These are the phone numbers, and I blocked them both: 800-772-6362 800-772-6326
CM
February 04, 2019
I got several of these Social Security (SS) scam calls just recently, last one today. Knowing that SS would never call like that was comfort to me. But word of advice for any calls or emails asking for info or to click on a link -- whether it be SS, banks, credit cards, "law enforcement", IRS, Apple, "Windows" etc. -- don't ever give out any info. If you think it could be legitimate, call SS, bank, credit card #, etc directly. On emails, check the actual address -- you can usually tell it's not coming from the actual sender. Even so, don't click on any links -- just call the institution directly. And the computer stuff like Apple and "Windows" -- those are always scams. They don't monitor your computer for malware or viruses.
drea
February 06, 2019
Just received a robo call regarding this ssn scam - call back number they gave is 304-409-2411 - I did not call back and blocked the number
Ares
February 06, 2019
18777012133 Depositing new message Reason you have received this phone call from our department is to inform you that we just suspend your social security number because we found some suspicious activity. So if you want to know about this case just press one thank you. This call is from the department of social security administration. The reason you have received this phone call from our department is to inform you that we just suspend your social security number because we found some suspicious activity. So if you want to know about this case just press one thank you.. Click here: to listen to full voice message.Still happening .I received 3 calls today and my new roommate just received the same call ask for credentials to the heavy Indian accent on the other end and they'll hang up
pinkshir
February 08, 2019
I got a call and said need to confirm with my last 4 social digits. I asked them what company are they? They said they are American express. I said I don't have an American Express card, DO NOT CALL ME again. The following weeks, I got calls almost everday saying my social security card got suspended. :( The numbers are 18664043449, 18664043419.
annoyed by calls
February 11, 2019
410-346-1823 - voice recording that my SS # is being revoked because of illegal activity … so annoying.
Stephen D.
February 11, 2019
Got one of these scam calls today from 512-487-7699. Hung up the moment they mentioned Social Security.
Big Al
February 12, 2019
Just got a SCAM CALL from Lebanon VA (276) 254-5325. Date 2/12/2019
AndreaV
February 12, 2019
Someone called for 1(888) 359 0015 I did not answer. The voice message said that this call was about my SSN that it will be suspended and I will be in front of a Grand Jury con committing Federal criminal offense.
Ecclecticat
February 14, 2019
Same thing just happened to me this morning... I received a call on my cell phone from 800-772-6270 stating that my SSN has been suspended due to... some kind of legal concern. I didn't press #1 fast enough for additional info so I called the number back. And then I thought... yeah ok. Since when does the SSA suspend a SSN? You can't suspend a SSN? That's like suspending a person's identity or being! Like all of a sudden, poof, I just don't exist anymore. Complete b.s. So I instantly went to Google just to see what the internet's take on this was, and here's my proof. Word to the wise - government agencies NEVER (solely)call you if they need to contact you or if you're in trouble - they will ALWAYS send something to the last address they had on file for you. Because things in writing are binding and serve as legal proof of documentation. Stay woke, everyone!!
Nsam
February 14, 2019
Just got a call from a 430-234-0001 that my social security number will be suspended in 24 hrs due to suspicious activity...Not responding! Thanks for this information.
Fake Deedee
February 15, 2019
I just had a fun call with a scammer. They left me a vm, stating that my SSN would be cancelled due to fraudulent activity, and gave me an option to either call 800-269-0271 or call them direct at 518-620-1459, so I called from my work phone and when the gentlemen answered, he asked for my name. I used my quick thinking and was able to come up with a fake name of Deedee Roper. Then the guy asks me if I'd ever been to Mexico. I told him no and he goes on to say that I wired money to someone in Mexico with the last name of Gonzalez from my Bank of America account. I told him I don't know anyone in Mexico, I haven't wired any money and to anyone in Mexico and I don't have an account with Bank of America. I then told him that SSA website specifically states that they will never cancel a SSN. He then said that my SSN wasn't cancelled but instead blocked and I told him no it isn't. He went on to yes, yes ma'am it has been blocked. Then I said, no it hasn't...you know how I know??? Because first of all my name isn't even Deedee Roper. I just made that up when we got on the phone and of course at that point he hung up.....jokes on you buddy!!!
MEChpmn
February 16, 2019
Just tell them your social is BR549 Anyone who's watched the TV show will not what that number is lol
Jk
February 19, 2019
4 calls today telling me they are suspending my ss# all 866-404-xxxx numbers!!
hayshhan
February 20, 2019
Got a call saying that they are from goverment and my ssn suspended..it was weird and talked further what will be the reason??they slowly asked my acc details and i told i will face it legally..they hang up the call....they found ssn unfortunately, will that create any problems ??any advice ?
Spurlockl
February 21, 2019
‭+1 (410) 630-1267‬ Robot caller claiming that my social security number has been suspended due to multiple suspicious activities against it. BEWARE!!!!
Roger
September 18, 2019

In reply to by Spurlockl

The caller also identified himself as officer Alex and badge number 868350????
Toosmarttobefooled
February 22, 2019
What's really sad is the ones who usually get scammed are the elderly. They are not computer savvy and when they get a call like this they are afraid that they will not get their check.
Sadworld
February 22, 2019
I just received 3 calls in a roll from a Maryland number (443)457-0409 they left a message stating from SS office and my number was being suspended need to call them right away. Deleted calls please don't answer these. :(
Tina Marie
February 23, 2019
There are two numbers calling me with the same robot voicemail from California saying “ if I do not call them.. legal proceedings will begin against me.. I am afraid to call back in fear of hacking.. ‭+1 (559) 258-2767‬ and ‭+1 (209) 243-6010‬
Hotrodgrl
February 23, 2019
866-404-4487 called me six times in a row.. I knew it was b.s. from the beginning .. However, if they had been lucky to contact a 80+ yr old they might of been convinced..Just ridiculous. .....
Lizajane
February 23, 2019
Received call from robocaller today stating my SSN was involved in fraudulent activity and was going to be suspended??? They left the message to press 1 to speak to someone who can assist with fixing this issue. Ummm NOPE NOT calling ever!!! Total SCAM the number was from Puyallup WA (253)-268-7232. Please people if you don’t know the number don’t answer the phone!!! If it’s important they will leave a message.
Kiezelkij
February 25, 2019
Got two calls from 1-800-170-0000. Saying they were Officer Maria from SSN OFFICE and my SSN was suspended.
Deborah
March 19, 2019

In reply to by Kiezelkij

Just recieved a phone call saying that my ssna was cancelled or suspended and that i need to call back and push number 9 to resolve issue or an ogficer will be contacting me 1 800 170 0000
Constructor
February 26, 2019
I just received one of these calls from 800/722/2739 Just to let everyone know!
cmerun6
February 26, 2019
I received two calls from 310-684-3826. Typical scammer b.s. 'stuff'. I have reported them to FTC.
FargoND1
February 26, 2019
Just received robo call, stating that my social security number has been suspended due to criminal activity. caller number 235-268-6940
Estys
February 27, 2019
Got 2 calls today from ‭+1 (800) 229-9898‬ and ‭+1 (855) 562-1819‬ from them. They said that my social security number has been suspended
CAloving
February 27, 2019
I just got a call, but since my phone Marked it as scam likely, I didn’t answer. But was lefts voicemail, and it was a recording of a lady saying exactly thoese words, I knew it was a scam. The number is 18007477752, I had been called 2 times before today, and it was the same number, but no message had been left.
imagonner
February 28, 2019
yep, I had one of these in my voicemail yesterday. Wish I had answered, I love playing with these fools. If I have a call with a number I don't recognize I answer "Department of Homeland Security, how can I direct your call" LOL
Montebello
February 28, 2019
I received a voicemail saying my SSN will be suspended, call came in from 800-996-4057, tried to call them back and tell them my SS# is 999-99-NEVERMIND however the number is now disconnected.
Tired of Scams!!
February 28, 2019
Been getting calls from this number several times per day: 518-418-5599. Call from Lake Placid, NY. It is definitely a robo-call identifying themselves as the “Inspector” of the Social Security Office letting me know my ss# is suspended. I am to call back and give them information.
Scam
March 01, 2019
Got a phone call, wasn't near the phone but a message was left. Automated voice with 1st half of what it said cut off. Said "we have got an order to suspend your social at very right moment due to suspicions activity" then instructed me to call the number back. The number used, probably spoofed, 3106843816.
AuntJack
March 01, 2019
Got a call today from a number out of Indiana. Same message as what everyone else listed, good thing I can drive on a "suspended" social security! Lol
DeniB
March 01, 2019
I was told that I had been called numerous times and this was my last chance to return this call(which I answered) saying that my Social Security has been shut down, and they hung up! They called from Issaquah, WA Phone 425-395-8422
calleduser
March 04, 2019
Getting calls from 234 357 XXXX and 234 355 XXXX SS is suspended
Buzz
March 05, 2019
This # 908-970-9827 Oldwick New Jersey is what called me. No name just number and location. If that’s even it. Plus a recording!! These people need to get a real job.
Chad
March 05, 2019
I just got this robocall from 806-553-6511 - what a stupid scam. Just wanted to put this number out there because unlike some of the others, if you call it, it is a call center claiming to be the SSA.
JoDesjardins
March 05, 2019
I received a call today from (281) 656-1247 on this scam claiming my social security number has been blocked and reported in a criminal activity. Just want to make you aware that these scam calls are still pervasive.
allstuff
March 05, 2019
I received 4 calls today stating my social security had been suspended. I knew better and hung up. Two different numbers 866-404-3898 and 866-404-4587. Very annoying.
Mau
March 05, 2019
I just received a call from 1-877-553-6912 It was an electronic voice saying it was social security administration And my card/ account was suspended due to fraudulent or suspicious activity. I know better than to answer, but I'm concerned about mainly the elderly who are unaware of these things happening.
Krystal
March 06, 2019
Everyone should know that US Govt officals will never EVER call you! This is a prime example as to why they never do. If the Govt wants to contact you it will ALWAYS be via mail with a number for you to contact them. I feel terrible for the ppl that fall for these scams.
Melanie
March 06, 2019
Just received a voice mail from 936-253-6089 (Liberty, TX). The first part of the message was cut off, but what was there said, "we proceed further with the suspension of your social and assets. Please press 1 to speak to the officer right away." It was an automated voice, not a real person.
NY
March 06, 2019
Phone number 929-266-5465 left multiple messages stating my SS# was suspended and to call them immediately
scammed victim
March 06, 2019
I just got one of those calls saying my SSN was suspended (automated robot call). Then they said to find out more press 1, which connects you to the caller. The first thing they ask is to confirm your name. I got suspicious so I said I will call them back. then I went to check and its a known scam. The fraud call came from (760) 878 - 5020.
Fagia 200913
March 06, 2019
When is the government will stop those scammers. All this is because we moved our credit cards customer service abroad and they’re selling our information to scammers. We do not need a wall we need a great firewall to protect our identities.
hank1632
March 07, 2019
332-255-6358, voicemail stating 'there is an order to suspend my ssn because of fraudulent activity' don't call back people!
scammed
March 07, 2019
Mine came from Texas: (409)420-3382