Unfortunately, the question “Is this a scam or not?” is one we increasingly have to ask ourselves these days. The pervasiveness of fake emails, letters, and text messages trying to get our personal information or infect our devices, now require that we think before clicking a link, calling a random phone number, or responding to a text. A healthy dose of skepticism is usually prudent when we receive unexpected contact from what appear to be legitimate vendors or agencies.
Below is one example of each.
NOT a Scam
Once you file a claim to receive Social Security benefits, the SSA may mail you a written notice involving potential retirement plan benefits that you may have earned during your working life. See the example below:
You may have received some or all of these benefits already, but it’s important to review the notice and reach out to the plan administrator to confirm if there are any unclaimed benefits. Make sure the plan administrator’s information contained in the letter is accurate before making any inquiries.
It's a SCAM
One scam on the rise is through text message (called “smishing” – SMS phishing), supposedly from your state’s toll provider, or some other related service provider, indicating that there is an unpaid bill that must be paid to avoid legal action or penalties.
The scam text will likely include a link and ask you to click the link to pay immediately or verify your information. The link appears to be an official website but is actually a phishing site designed to fool you.
Toll operators typically don't use text messages to collect on overdue accounts, and do not use threatening language to rush customers into action.
If there is a link or an action step to take with an unexpected text message, it’s best to delete and block the number. You can contact the toll service provider directly or log into their site to confirm there is no outstanding balance.
