The Social Security Administration (SSA) has introduced new anti-fraud measures designed to safeguard individuals who file claims via telephone. This initiative follows warnings from Elon Musk regarding scammers targeting the agency’s phone lines to intercept benefits. According to the SSA, the newly implemented measures will identify suspicious activities in telephone claims by analyzing patterns and anomalies within a person’s account immediately.
If the system detects irregularities, individuals will be required to complete in-person identity verification to proceed with their claims. This technology will not only apply to phone claims but will continue to be used for all in-person claims as well. Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek stated that this move is intended to modernize the agency’s public services, enhancing both security and accessibility. Dudek emphasized that these updates would enhance the SSA’s ability to detect and prevent fraud while offering more flexible options for people accessing their benefits.
The SSA explained that this change aims to maintain service security while expanding access for customers unable to file online or visit the agency in person. Last month, during an appearance on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier,” Elon Musk and other members of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) highlighted that a large number of daily calls to the Social Security office are from individuals attempting to alter legitimate recipients’ direct deposit information to commit theft.
Aram Moghaddassi, a DOGE engineer, noted that nearly 40% of these calls are from fraudsters. Musk addressed concerns that DOGE’s initiatives might inadvertently result in legitimate Social Security recipients not receiving their payments. He assured that the group’s efforts would ensure beneficiaries receive their entitled benefits, stating that legitimate recipients would, in fact, receive more money as a result of DOGE’s work.
The SSA recently underwent a transition to stronger identity proofing procedures for benefit claims and direct deposit changes. These changes included implementing both online and in-person identity verification. For individuals unable to use the agency’s online services, claims can be initiated via telephone but must be completed with in-person identity verification. FOX Business’ Eric Revell contributed to the report.
