Widespread social security scam

Area residents in Waitsburg Dayton and surrounding areas have been receiving phone calls claiming to be from Social Security for the last couple of weeks. Calls are from an automated system stating that “your social security card has been suspended, due to suspicious activity.”

Columbia County Emergency Management gives the following advice:

“Please do not respond to these phone calls. If you speak with someone do not give out any personal information, this is what they really want. Tell them you will follow up with your local agency or simply Hang up.

“The Social Security Administration will never call to threaten your benefits or tell you to wire money, send cash, or put money on gift cards. They also will not call to suspend your Social Security Card. Do not click on any links in an email claiming to be from SSA. If you are still unsure please contact your local Social Security Office.”