Hawaii SSA Imposter Email Scams: How to Spot Them and Stay Safe

Fraudsters are sending emails that look like official Social Security Administration (SSA) messages, often claiming your Social Security statement is ready. These messages may include links or attachments designed to steal personal information, infect your device with malware, or lead to financial loss. The SSA Office of Inspector General (OIG) has warned the public about a sharp increase in these imposter emails, including impacts in Hawaii.

Why these scams work

Scammers rely on two things:

• Trust: They copy government style, logos, and formatting.
• Pressure: They use urgent language to push you into clicking before you think.

If a message tries to rush you, that is your cue to slow down.

Red flags to watch for in SSA imposter emails

Be suspicious if the email includes:

• A claim that your statement, benefits update, or account notice is “ready” with a link to view it
• Urgent warnings like “account will be suspended” or “action required immediately”
• Attachments you did not request
• Lookalike sender addresses that do not end in “.gov”

The safest way to access Social Security online

Do not use links in unexpected emails or texts. If you want to check your account:

1. Open your browser.
2. Type the official address directly: ssa.gov/myaccount
3. Sign in from there, not from an email link.

What to do if you receive a suspicious email

Use this quick checklist:

• Do not click links or open attachments
• Delete the email
• Report it to SSA OIG using their fraud reporting page

What to do if you clicked or shared information

Act fast to limit damage:

• Contact your bank or credit card company right away
• File a report with IC3 and the FTC
• Change passwords (starting with email and financial accounts) and enable two factor authentication where available

A note for families supporting kupuna in Hawaii

Older adults, especially those living alone or in rural areas, are frequent targets. Share these simple habits with family members:

• “No clicking links in surprise emails”
• “Type the website address yourself”
• “Call a trusted person before responding to anything urgent”

Helpful official resource

For more information on Social Security related scams and reporting guidance, use SSA’s scam information page.