National Slam the Scam Day: A Time to Fight Fraud

Today, March 5, is National Slam the Scam Day, warning us to shut the door on fraudsters who pose as government employees to try to scam us. Have you ever received a sketchy phone call from someone saying you owe the government money? Or a strange text telling you about a Postal Service package you’re not expecting? If so, this day is for you.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) and the SSA Office of Inspector General started Slam the Scam Day as part of National Consumer Protection Week. It focuses on raising awareness, teaching consumers how to identify a scammer, and cautioning people not to give personal information or money to people who falsely claim to represent the SSA, IRS, or any other agencies (including USPS). It’s part of the work OIGs throughout the government do to combat fraud.

At the USPS OIG, we fight fraud every day across a number of fronts:

• Our special agents track down fraudulent activity related to mail theft, such as the fraudulent use of stolen credit cards or checks.
• Agents also combat financial fraud and fraud affecting the Postal Service’s spending on contracts and health care.
• Our auditors check for vulnerabilities to fraud in USPS processes and systems.
• Auditors also examine operations of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which investigates crimes involving identity theft and mail fraud. 

Speaking of the Inspection Service, there’s an excellent page on its website providing tips on how to protect yourself from identity theft scams and other fraud.

Remember, if you suspect any fraudulent activity that we should investigate, contact our Hotline. 

What steps do you take to protect yourself from fraud?