Social Security benefits can be diverted by identity thieves.

By Greg Wright, 

MBA, CFE, CFP®, CLU, ChFC

Certified Fraud Examiner

Certified Financial Planner™

Identity thieves can obtain personal information about Social Security recipients and use that information to open a "my Social Security" account on the Social Security website.  Then they can use that account to redirect the cash benefits to an account they control.  The individual – usually a Senior --  may not be able to prove his/her identity and correct the situation.

Seniors are especially vulnerable to this fraudulent scheme.  I encourage my friends to go to the Social Security website and open a “My Social Security” account.  When you do this, no one will be able to change your personal Social Security information on the internet.  

Even if you are not receiving Social Security benefits, you should consider establishing a "My Social Security" account.  An identity thief may use this technique to steal your identity.  If they control your social security account, try proving you are who you say you are.  

Here is the website link: https://secure.ssa.gov/RIL/SiView.do