THE Social Security Agency (SSA) is urging vigilance over a telephone scam which has come to light.
The scam, which has been reported by a number of customers, involves people being played an automated message when they answer their telephone. The message, it is claimed, comes from the Pension Service and people are asked to press a button to access a cash payout of £1,000.
An SSA spokesperson said: “A number of our customers have received a call from this automated service, claiming to offer a cash award linked to a pension. This is in no way linked to the work of the SSA and we would urge those receiving this call to hang up immediately.
“Calls to customers from the SSA’s Pension Service will never be automated. They will be made by a member of the Northern Ireland Pension Service team who will clearly identify themselves.”
Social Security Agency officials have alerted Trading Standards to the scam and are asking local people to be vigilant. Anyone receiving this call can telephone Trading Standards on 0300 123 6262.
