SSA Issues Urgent Alert on Surge of Imposter Email Scams Targeting Retirees

The Social Security Administration and its Office of Inspector General have issued a joint warning about a sharp rise in fraudulent emails that appear to come from the agency. The scams, which have spiked ahead of the April 2026 benefit disbursement, mimic official SSA communications, use government‑style branding, and claim to provide access to a recipient’s Social Security statement.

Clicking the links can install malware, steal personal identifiers, and lead to financial loss. Officials stress that legitimate SSA messages are sent from addresses ending in “.gov.” Retirees are urged to verify any request by visiting ssa.gov/myaccount, calling the agency’s toll‑free line, or scheduling an in‑person or video appointment.

The warning follows a “significant increase” in incidents reported to the agency’s Inspector General, prompting a nationwide advisory to seniors and their families. The SSA advises against replying to unsolicited emails, downloading attachments, or providing Social Security numbers or banking information through unknown channels.