Don’t risk your benefits—what every Social Security recipient should know about this new fraud check

Kathleen Talay · Tuesday at 9:03 PM

When it comes to protecting your finances, peace of mind starts with preparation.

New safeguards are being rolled out for Social Security claims—especially for those made over the phone.

And if you're not aware of them, you could face delays in accessing what you've rightfully earned.

New anti-fraud checks are now active for phone-based Social Security claims

Starting April 14, the Social Security Administration (SSA) began using enhanced technology to monitor phone claims for suspicious activity.

The goal? Stop scammers before they steal your benefits—and ensure every claim is verified.

Starting April 14, the SSA began using enhanced technology to monitor phone claims for suspicious activity. Image source: NewsNation / YouTube

“We are modernizing how we serve the public—enhancing both security and accessibility, ” Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek said. "These updates improve our ability to detect and prevent fraud while providing more flexible options for people to access their benefits."

These changes come just weeks after public pushback over proposed cuts to phone services.

Now, rather than eliminating them, the SSA is strengthening how they operate.

More SSA updates: Check your mailbox—Millions to see a Social Security increase

How the fraud checks work—and who may be affected

Under the new system, all phone-based claims go through automated anti-fraud screening.

If a claim is flagged for risk, the individual will be required to verify their identity in person before continuing.

This step ensures that claims are tied to real people—not fraudsters. And while over 4.5 million phone claims are processed each year, the SSA expects only around 70,000 to be flagged.

To assist, the SSA is adding more staff to its phone lines to minimize delays and provide live help.

Source: NewsNation / YouTube

Who must verify their identity in person?

You may need to visit a local Social Security office if:

You’re applying for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary (Spouse or Child) benefits
You’re changing your direct deposit information
You receive paper checks and need to update your mailing address

These steps are in place to ensure no unauthorized person can access or redirect your payments.

More SSA updates:A major shake-up at Social Security—what it means for your personal data

Online services still make life easier—here’s what you can do from home

The SSA encourages people to use its online portal for many services, including:

Applying for benefits
Replacing a Social Security card
Updating contact details
Changing your name
Checking application status
Managing direct deposit

While some tasks may require a follow-up office visit, starting online saves time—and gets you in the system faster.

Need to make an appointment? Call 1-800-772-1213 or use the Social Security Office Locator on the SSA website.

Want to know more SSA updates? Read here to find out what Social Security just announced and how it may affect your plans.

The Social Security Administration has introduced anti-fraud measures for claims made over the telephone to protect beneficiaries and streamline their experience.
Beginning on April 14, all telephone claims to Social Security will be checked for potential fraud indicators, with some claimants potentially needing to verify their identity in person.
The new security measures aim to identify suspicious activity through enhanced technology that analyses patterns and anomalies in accounts.
Social Security offers a range of services online, but certain actions may still require a beneficiary or applicant to visit their local SSA office in person.

Have you experienced any challenges with Social Security claims? Do you have tips for remembering secure passwords or avoiding scams? Share your insights and questions in the comments below.

Search

Search