A new phishing scam is making the rounds, and it’s targeting individuals by impersonating the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Victims receive an email that appears to come from the SSA, complete with a convincing logo and a message claiming their financial statement is ready to view. The email includes instructions and urges recipients to download an attached file to access the document.
But here’s the catch: the email is a fake.
Clicking on the attachment installs malicious software onto your computer. This malware can give hackers remote access to your device, allowing them to steal sensitive data such as login credentials, financial records, and other personal files. From there, criminals can engage in identity theft and commit fraud using your information.
Stay Safe: Key Tips to Protect Yourself from Phishing Attacks
Avoid unexpected attachments: Legitimate government entities rarely send attachments via email—especially when it comes to sensitive data. They usually rely on secure websites or physical mail.
Scrutinize the sender’s email address: Scammers often mimic official email domains but include subtle typos or variations that can easily be overlooked.
Be cautious globally: While this scam targets individuals in the U.S., similar tactics are used across the world. Always pause and evaluate before opening links or downloading files from unsolicited messages.
Phishing schemes continue to evolve in sophistication, making it more important than ever to stay informed and vigilant. A few seconds of caution can save you from weeks—or even months—of financial and personal disruption.
