The Social Security System (SSS) is alerting its members to be cautious of suspicious calls and text messages from individuals claiming to be SSS representatives.
SSS vice president for Visayas West 1 Division, Lilani Benedian, said March 3 that these scammers are using various tactics, including vishing (voice phishing) calls, to trick victims into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials and personal data.
“We received reports that these unscrupulous individuals are making personal calls to our members advising them to update their contact or login details. However, these are merely ploys to extract confidential information and use it for fraudulent activities,” Benedian said in a statement.
She explained that these scammers either pose as Tech Support Teams asking for access to devices and payment apps, or authority figures claiming to be SSS employees or law enforcement officials using intimidation and threats to cancel membership or block online accounts.
“SSS employees would never inquire about confidential information as we strictly obey the Data Privacy Act of 2012. SSS personnel will only call or send text notifications to our members and pensioners to inform or remind them that they have to visit their branch office for their benefit claim application or compliance to the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP),” Benedian stressed.
She reminded members that updating of member records should be done over the counter at the nearest SSS branch office.
“Do not share your Social Security (SS) Number, login credentials, disbursement account details and other personal information to anyone, especially to people offering to assist you in your online transactions,” she warned SSS members.
SSS encourages anyone who encountered fake SSS employees to report it to SSS and law enforcement authorities. They can also send an email to the SSS Special Investigation Department at fid@sss.gov.ph or call (02) 8924-7370. ||
