AskFirstFake IRS, Social Security and Medicare calls
A caller or message claims to be from the IRS, Social Security, Medicare, the police or a court. They say there’s a problem — unpaid taxes, a suspended Social Security number, a warrant — and demand payment or personal details.
How it works
- Caller ID may even show a real agency name or number — that can be faked.
- They threaten arrest, deportation or cutting off benefits unless you pay right now.
- They ask for gift cards, crypto, a wire, or for you to “move your money to a safe account”.
Warning signs
- Threats of arrest or losing benefits
- Demands to pay right now, by phone
- Gift cards, crypto, wire or a “safe account”
- Asking you to confirm your Social Security or Medicare number
What to do
- Hang up. Government agencies contact you by mail first and don’t demand payment by phone.
- If you’re worried, call the agency using the number on its official website or a letter you received.
- Never move money to a “safe account” — there is no such thing.
What it can look like
This is Officer Daniels with the Social Security Administration. Your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity and there is a warrant for your arrest. Press 1 to speak with an agent and resolve this today with a payment.
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