Wyoming Community Bank is urging community members to stay alert following a new government imposter scam warning issued by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for the Social Security Administration (SSA). This scam uses official-looking letters that falsely appear to come from the U.S. Supreme Court, complete with forged signatures of Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Sonia Sotomayor.
These fraudulent letters claim the recipient is involved in criminal proceedings and urge them to cooperate with a supposed SSA official. Victims are pressured to send money or share personal information under the threat of frozen assets or legal consequences. The letters even reference legitimate government names, such as Attorney General Raúl Torrez of New Mexico, and falsely claim that the recipient’s Social Security number (SSN) has been compromised and a new one will be issued.
In addition to the letters, scammers may follow up with texts or phone calls pretending to be from the SSA or other federal agencies. These communications often warn that bank accounts will be frozen and direct victims to “protect” their funds by transferring them, an action that leads straight to the scammers.
“On every level this letter is completely false,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Acting Inspector General. “Scammers continue to exploit fear and confusion by impersonating government agencies and officials. If you get this type of letter, rip it up and report it.”
How to Protect Yourself
- Be skeptical of any unexpected letter, email, or text claiming to be from a government agency.
- Stop and think before responding or sending money.
- Verify first—talk to someone you trust or contact the SSA directly.
- Report scams at ssa.gov/scam.
- Stay informed by following SSA OIG on X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
- For additional consumer protection tips, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Wyoming Community Bank reminds everyone that a legitimate government agency will never threaten you, demand immediate payment, or request personal information by phone or email. Staying alert and informed is the best defense against fraud.
