Government Phone Scams
Government NEVER calls demanding money.
IRS RULE
IRS never calls. Always sends letters first. Never asks for gift cards.
Social Security RULE
Never calls about “suspended benefits.” Always letters by mail.
Medicare RULE
Never asks for Medicare number on phone. Hangs up if you didn't initiate.
If they threaten arrest
It's a SCAM. Real government never threatens immediate arrest by phone.
Spoofed numbers
Caller ID can fake any number. Even if it shows IRS, hang up.
Verify directly
Call IRS 1-800-829-1040. SSA 1-800-772-1213. Confirm any letter.
Quick Tip: Tell family you got a scam call. They can warn other seniors.