New Phishing Scam Targets Social Security Numbers – An ACCESS Fraud Alert

March 1, 2006 – A warning was issued this week by Jo Anne Barnhart, Commissioner of Social Security. Consumers need to be on the lookout for a new e-mail phishing scam with the aim of separating you from both your Social Security Number and your banking information. The message appears to originate from the Social Security Administration.

Targets of the scam receive an e-mail message with the introductory line, "Dear Social Security Number And Card owner". The message uses a template that makes it appear to be sent by the SSA. It goes on to inform the recipient that "someone illegally is using your Social Security number and assuming your identity". It then provides a link to what appears to the Social Security Administration website and asks the recipient to click on the link and to verify certain information. The website is phony.

Once on the website, consumers are asked to verify their Social Security Number by typing it into a form. They are then asked to provide bank credit card numbers, security codes, PIN numbers and expiration dates. The Social Security Administration has no need for this information and Barnhart said, "Whether on our online website or by phone, Social Security will never ask you for your credit card information or your PIN number."

Consumers who receive any e-mail messages similar to the one described here should contact the Office of Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. They can be reached by phone at 800-269-0271 or via the internet at www.socialsecurity.gov/oig.

Technorati Tags : fraud, phishing, scam, Social+Security, identity+theft