Suspect Poses as Social Security Employee
A man claiming to represent the Social Security Administration has been accused of defrauding an elderly couple in Pennsylvania, stealing over $1.3 million in gold.
The suspect contacted a 78-year-old couple residing in New Providence, approximately 66 miles west of Philadelphia, on December 1. He informed them that one of their Social Security numbers had been compromised.
He instructed the victims to liquidate their retirement savings and assets, totaling $1,328,652, to purchase gold. This gold was supposedly needed to secure a new Social Security number.
After the couple acquired the gold, it was taken by unknown individuals, according to a report from Pennsylvania State Police. The identities of the victims have not been disclosed as the investigation continues.
No arrests have been made or suspects identified as of Thursday.
The Social Security Administration advises that it only contacts individuals who have recently applied for benefits or need to update their records. If there is an issue with someone’s Social Security number, they will send a letter rather than make phone calls.
The agency emphasizes that it does not threaten legal action or demand immediate payments and will never ask for personal information or payment through gift cards or cash transfers.
“Fraudsters often impersonate government officials and claim your identity has been stolen,” warns the Social Security Administration.
