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The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced plans to limit its toll-free phone services, citing concerns over fraud and identity verification issues.
In a statement, the SSA explained that approximately 40% of direct deposit-related fraud is linked to individuals contacting them via phone to change their bank account information. To address this issue, the agency will now require recipients to use two-factor authentication through their online “my Social Security” service or by visiting a local office in person.
The new policy comes after reports surfaced that the SSA was considering eliminating all telephone services altogether, but the agency has since clarified that it only plans to restrict access to certain phone-based transactions. All other SSA phone services will remain unaffected.
This change is likely to cause concern among many Social Security recipients who rely on these toll-free phone services, particularly those without internet access or who have difficulty navigating online platforms. The SSA’s decision may also raise concerns about the potential impact on service accessibility for disabled and older Americans who rely heavily on these programs.
It remains unclear how this change will affect the millions of retirees, disabled individuals, and others who depend on Social Security benefits each month.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/social-security-administration-number/
