Social Security scam hits Moultrie - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

Social Security scam hits Moultrie

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By Stephen Abel - bio | email
Investigator David Underwood Investigator David Underwood

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MOULTRIE, GA (WALB) - Phone scammers are at it again.

This time the victims are senior citizens in Moultrie.

As with other cases, the scammers are calling folks asking for their personal information in an attempt to steal their money or even their identity.

And they are using the recent closing of a government office to their advantage.

Phone scams are becoming more common in South Georgia.

"The main thing really is if someone calls you on the phone and they want your date of birth, social security number, or anything about you, don't give it to them," said Investigator David Underwood.

Investigators say scammers are convincing people, often the elderly, that their Social Security or Medicare benefits are at risk. And they get their victim's personal information.

Police say while the closing of Moultrie's Social Security office is not the focus behind the scam, it does give victims a reason to believe it's true.

"Scammers may be able to use that to their advantage saying hey this branch is closing, we want to make sure your information is correct so your services won't be interrupted and they'll ask for date of birth, social security number, things like that," said Underwood.

And investigators say first finding then prosecuting these individuals, is next to impossible.

"I've only heard of one case and it wasn't in Georgia where authorities were able to make a case against some scammers," said Underwood.

Investigators say the best way to avoid being a victim of any scam, is common sense.

"Particularly if they call you and tell you they need you to send them some money, before they can send you money, obviously it's a scam," said Underwood.

Investigators say while it is difficult to track down these scammers, they always recommend you call the police if you are ever the victim of a crime.

Police say one way to find out if a call is legitimate is to look up the caller's number online, in a phone book, or by calling your local law enforcement.


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