Security News > 2021 > March > US government warns of Social Security scams using fake federal IDs
Government imposter scams now come with a new twist that has the potential to make them even more effective, as the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration warns.
According to reports received by the Office of the Inspector General, the scammers' tactics arsenal has been updated to include the use of fake IDs designed to look like those used by Federal employees.
"The Office of the Inspector General has received reports of phone scammers creating fake versions of the identification badges most Federal employees use to gain access to Federal buildings," the warning reads.
To convince their targets that their identity and demands are legitimate, the scammers will email or text photos of the fake federal IDs.
Earlier today, the Federal Trade Commission also warned the public about incoming reports of scammers calling, texting, or emailing while posing as US government officials.
Don't use the number in caller ID. Government agencies like the Internal Revenue Service or the Social Security Administration won't call, text, or email you to say that you owe money.