Bossier Sheriff Warns of Scam in Area

Sheriff Julian Whittington of Bossier Parish is warning of a scam involving people claiming to be from the Social Security Administration threatening local residents.

Sheriff Whittington is urging people not to fall for this scam saying:

“I know people get nervous when they get these types of phone calls, especially when it comes to their social security. Scammers will typically contact our seniors, who often feel vulnerable, and I want to help them avoid becoming a victim of this fraud.”

Representatives of Social Security says if there is an issue they will send you an official letter unless you have requested a call or have ongoing business with them. The latest scam trick of using robocalls or live callers has increased. Fraudsters pretend to be government employees and claim there is identity theft or another problem with one’s Social Security number, account, or benefits.

Scammers may threaten arrest or other legal action, or may offer to increase benefits, protect assets, or resolve identity theft. They often demand payment via retail gift cards, wire transfers, pre-paid debit cards, internet currency, or mailing cash.

Social Security says they will never:

· Threaten you.

· Suspend your Social Security number.

· Demand immediate payment from you.

· Require payment by cash, gift card, pre-paid debit card, internet currency, or wire transfer.

· Ask for gift card numbers over the phone or to wire or mail cash.

If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, do this:

· Hang up

· DO not return unknown calls, texts, or emails.

· Do not give money or personal information. · Report the scam to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) at oig.ssa.gov/scam.

As always, you can report scams or any other types of crimes at any time to the Bossier Sheriff’s Office at (318) 965-2203.

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