Can Social Security suspend my number?
Calls claiming your Social Security number is suspended or connected to a crime are government impersonation scams.
“Your Social Security number has been suspended because of suspicious activity. Press 1 to speak with an officer.”
Why this is suspicious
The Social Security Administration does not suspend Social Security numbers. Scammers use threats of arrest or lost benefits to collect money and personal information.
Warning signs
- A recording says your number is suspended
- The caller threatens arrest
- They ask for payment or account information
- Caller ID appears to show a government office
What to do next
- Hang up without pressing buttons
- Do not confirm your Social Security number
- Contact Social Security through SSA.gov or its published number
- Report the impersonation
If you already clicked or paid
For guidance on what to do after a possible scam, visit the FTC’s recovery guide. It covers different situations, including payments and personal information.
Official source: Social Security scam information
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