Social Security scam calls are a prevalent threat, with scammers impersonating officials to steal personal information. To protect yourself, consider the following apps:
Robokiller: AI-Powered Call Blocking
Robokiller utilizes advanced AI to identify and block scam calls, including those impersonating Social Security officials. Its predictive call blocking uses audio fingerprinting to recognize suspicious calls instantly, stopping them before your phone even rings. Additionally, Robokiller engages scammers with humorous "Answer Bots," wasting their time and reducing the likelihood of future calls. The app also monitors data breaches without compromising your privacy. Robokiller is available for both Android and iOS devices. (insiderbits.com)
Hiya: Comprehensive Spam Call Detection
Hiya offers a free version that provides incoming spam call detection, effectively analyzing billions of calls monthly. It warns users against specific area codes and prefixes commonly used by scammers. The app also offers unlimited free lookups for spam and scam numbers against an extensive database. For additional security features, Hiya Premium is available at $2.99 per month. (verified.org)
Truecaller: Global Spam Call Blocking
Truecaller is a widely used app that identifies unknown callers and automatically blocks spam numbers based on user reports and AI detection. It offers caller ID for unknown numbers and blocks telemarketers and robocalls. The app is free, with a premium version available for additional features. (nooranweb.com)
Nomorobo: Effective for Landlines and Mobile Phones
Nomorobo uses "simultaneous ringing" technology to detect and block robocalls before they reach your phone. It works on both landlines and mobile devices, effectively stopping robocalls and telemarketing spam. Nomorobo won the FTC's Robocall Challenge in 2013 and offers a free basic plan for landlines and a paid plan for mobile devices. (moneytalksnews.com)
Google's Built-in Call Screening
Google has introduced a safety feature for Android users in the U.S. aimed at preventing banking-related scams during phone calls. This update detects if a user is on a call with an unknown number while attempting to open a banking or payment app, displaying a warning to prevent potential scams. (androidcentral.com)
Additional Tips to Protect Yourself
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Do Not Share Personal Information: Legitimate Social Security officials will never ask for personal information over the phone.
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Verify Caller Identity: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call the official Social Security number at 1-800-772-1213.
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Report Scam Calls: Report fraudulent calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
By utilizing these apps and following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to Social Security scam calls.
