Police/Fire
Sheriff Warns to Beware of Social Security Phone Scam
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The following information was provided by the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office:
The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be alert for a recently reported government imposter scam. On Monday, the MSO received a call from an area resident alleging he had been contacted by a man purporting to be with the IRS. The perpetrator told the resident his Social Security number (SSN) had been canceled because it had been compromised and used in Texas by criminals. The perpetrator further told the resident his bank accounts had also been frozen as a result and that a member of the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office would be following up with additional details. A short time later, the resident said he received a call from an individual posing as a member of the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office and was told that two deputies would collect his old Social Security card and issue him a new card and number. In an effort to further convince the resident the call was legitimate, the perpetrator used spoofing technology to make it appear as though the call was coming from a legitimate sheriff’s office telephone number. “It’s critically important for residents to be aware that their Social Security numbers cannot be canceled or suspended,” said Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian. “Fortunately, in this case, the resident felt something was amiss and followed up with our office to confirm this was a scam.”
Anyone who believes they have been the victim of this, or any, imposter scam is encouraged to contact their local police department. Individuals may also report the matter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/Information#crnt&panel1-1.
