Scammers Exploit Social Security COLA to Steal Personal Information

Michigan residents are being warned about a surge in phishing scams exploiting the upcoming Social Security cost-of-living adjustments (COLA). Scammers are impersonating Social Security Administration (SSA) officials, claiming beneficiaries must provide personal information to receive their COLA increase.

The SSA has announced a 2.5% COLA for 2025, effective January. Beneficiaries will receive this increase automatically and do not need to take any action. Any communication suggesting otherwise is fraudulent. ([oig.ssa.gov](https://oig.ssa.gov/scam-alerts/2025-07-17-don%E2%80%99t-let-scammers-deceive-you/?utm_source=openai))

Scammers are contacting individuals via phone, email, and text, posing as SSA representatives. They claim that to activate the COLA, recipients must verify personal details such as Social Security numbers and bank account information. This tactic aims to steal identities and financial assets. ([money.com](https://money.com/social-security-scam-cola/?utm_source=openai))

The SSA emphasizes that it will never contact beneficiaries unsolicited to request personal information. Official communications are typically conducted through mail. If you receive a suspicious call or message, do not respond. Instead, contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 or visit their official website. ([whnt.com](https://whnt.com/taking-action/bbb-consumer-alerts/social-security-recipients-how-to-avoid-cost-of-living-adjustment-scams/?utm_source=openai))

To protect yourself:

- Never share personal information over the phone or online unless you initiated the contact.

- Be cautious of unsolicited communications claiming to be from the SSA.

- Report suspected scams to the SSA's Office of the Inspector General. ([oig.ssa.gov](https://oig.ssa.gov/scam-alerts/2025-07-17-don%E2%80%99t-let-scammers-deceive-you/?utm_source=openai))

Staying informed and vigilant is crucial to safeguarding your personal information against these evolving scams.