Phil Cannella Complaints Phil Cannella thinks with 55 million Americans receiving Social Security, it stands to reason, tragically, that crooks are to defraud retirees and their families using their Social Security money. Following are a handful of tips from noted senior advocate Phil Cannella, founding father of First Senior Financial Group, on ways that Social Security recipients can steer clear of the scammer’s traps.
First, a Social Security Administration (SSA) employee won't ever contact you by e-mail. “Therefore,” says Phil Cannella, “ if you are getting e-mails regarding any facet of your social security benefits, it’s a computerized red-flag.”
Phil Cannella On Fraud
Phil Cannella ComplaintsIt is possible that an authorized Social Security Administration (SSA) representative may contact you by telephone or regular mail ifyou previously asked to improve your records. If someone is alternatively line or writing to you stating that the SSA is updating their records and they’ll need your Ssn, date of birth, mother’s maiden name, bank account number, etc., you can be sure someone is out to defraud you. “If that occurs, you certainly want to get in touch with the Social Security Administration yourself,” says Phil Cannella. “Call them at 1-800-772-1213 or go to a local office to confirm the legitimacy of the individual contacting you, the number they’ve accustomed to contact you, or even the letter they’ve sent you.”
Another hot scam is the place someone contacts a Social Security recipient, presents himself or herself as an SSA Rep, while offering a bigger Social Security sign in exchange for some “filing fee.”
“SSA workers are never permitted to charge filing fees and they may face criminal prosecution if they even try,” says Phil Cannella. “If you think you can get a greater benefit check, then go for it file an appeal by yourself. Or hire someone that will help you with the complicated process.” The main thing to remember, Phil Cannella emphasizes, is the fact that an SSA representative might not be involved with initiating this method.
Phil Cannella addresses Concerns & Questions
Phil Cannella ScamTo better comprehend the appeals process, or maybe you've any questions regarding your Social Security, again, call 1-800-325-0778 to talk with an agent or to locate an SSA office in your area.
Lastly, don't let yourself be deceived if a scam artist contacts you claiming you have some sort of special tax refund coming your way, says Phil Cannella, “I’ve heard about cases where they are saying you may be in a position to claim a lump sum of the items you’re supposedly owed in line with the lack of a COLA [Cost-of-Living-Adjustment] in 2009 and 2010. Believe me, you will never observe that phony lump sum. But in the meantime the con artists of the type uses any private information you gave them to engage in id theft.” As Phil Cannella’s eye-opening 2011 interview with FBI cyber-crime specialist Brian Herrick revealed, identity-theft fraud targeting seniors continues to be dramatically increasing in recent years.
Bottom line, says Phil Cannella, “Know how you can keep your Social Security payments safe by using the above advice listed and never hand out personal information to an “iffy” source.