AI and the Threat of Social Security Fraud

The surge in AI-enabled fraud, including scams targeting Social Security, is alarming. Culprits are leveraging artificial intelligence to extract personal details, which can be used to tap into benefits. The sophistication of these digital tools often makes their text messages, calls, and videos appear genuine.

A recent study by Atticus Law Firm in September 2024 revealed that 75% of Social Security beneficiaries are oblivious to AI-driven scams aimed at them. This study, which involved 1,000 Americans averaging 60 years of age, found that almost 20% of the participants were not confident in identifying such scams.

The Social Security Administration is not taking this lightly. The Office of the Inspector General has initiated a task force to investigate this issue. Their mission is to identify anomalies and curb AI-associated Social Security frauds. Inspector General Gail Ennis stated that the OIG is still beginning to comprehend how culprits might exploit AI to defraud the SSA.

For those receiving Social Security, being vigilant about AI threats is crucial. Here are some measures to safeguard your identity and finances:

  • Recognize the nature of AI Social Security scams.
  • Seek assistance from trusted acquaintances.
  • Guard your personal data against AI deceit.
  • Familiarize yourself with the workings of the Social Security Administration.
  • Stay updated on emerging scams.

Recognizing AI Social Security Scams

A prevalent tactic among fraudsters is deploying AI-powered robocalls or chatbots that mimic government officials. These automated platforms can deceive retirees into revealing confidential data or even making bogus payments through voice synthesis and natural language processing.

Online platforms aren’t exempt. Fraudsters might fabricate an AI-generated video featuring high-ranking officials, promoting a new Social Security benefit. Victims are lured to click on a link, leading them to a sham website where they’re prompted to input personal details. Many experts believe that once disclosed, this information may be used to redirect the victim’s Social Security benefits to an unauthorized account.

Seeking Assistance

Exercise caution with unfamiliar emails. Don’t feel pressured to respond to suspicious messages. If a call seems dubious, disconnect, verify its authenticity, and report any suspicious activities.

For instance, if someone alleges they’re from the local Social Security office, terminate the conversation. Then, contact the office directly to relay the incident. Additionally, confide in trusted individuals to help interpret questionable messages.

Guarding Personal Data

Establishing a ‘my Social Security’ account online at SSA.gov/myaccount can help. You can specify that any changes to the bank account receiving your benefits must be made in person at an SSA office.

Atticus recommends further safety measures:

  • Confirm website authenticity.
  • Refrain from disclosing personal data on social platforms.
  • Opt for robust online account passwords.
  • Share personal details only with verified entities.

Understanding the Social Security Administration

If you’re contacted by someone claiming to be from the Social Security Administration, reflect on their modus operandi. Remember, the SSA won’t proactively reach out via email, text, or call. Anyone claiming to be from SSA is a scammer.

Even if your caller ID displays the SSA, be wary. Scammers can easily manipulate caller IDs to display any desired number. Remember, you can always reach out to the SSA yourself and verify any information. 

Staying Alert to New Scams

Previously, criminals might have pilfered checks from mailboxes. Now, they’re digitally coaxing seniors into disclosing personal data. As tech evolves, so will their tactics.

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