The number of Social Security scams may be on the uptick. According to data from the Office of the Inspector General, the number of complaints about Social Security scams jumped from 15,571 in the fourth quarter of 2022 to 18,178 in the fourth quarter of 2023, an increase of 16.7%.

AARP Pennsylvania is urging everyone to regularly check online Social Security accounts and install robocall-blocking apps, and reporting any suspicious activity.

“By equipping ourselves with knowledge about the deceptive tactics of scammers, we can effectively shield our personal and financial well-being,” said Mary Bach, AARP Pennsylvania Volunteer and Chair of the Consumer Issues Task Force, in a news release. “Fraudsters often disguise themselves as representatives from the Social Security Administration to gain access to our sensitive information.”