These emails do not originate from SSA, and eligible individuals do not have to take any action to receive the $250 payments. "That unscrupulous individuals would use the Social Security Administration's name and reputation to take advantage of those who rely on our benefits for their well-being is an outrage," said Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security.

Fraud schemes related to Social Security programs have become increasingly common. In a telephone variation, callers claim to be SSA employees and request personal information, including bank account numbers, to update beneficiary information or "verify" future entitlement to Social Security benefits.

Inspector General O'Carroll urges all citizens to take precautions when giving out personal information over the Internet or telephone. "You should never provide your Social Security number, bank account numbers, or other personal information over the Internet or by telephone unless you are extremely confident of the source to whom you are providing the information."

If a person has questions about someone who claims to be a Social Security representative, Mr. O'Carroll recommends contacting his or her local Social Security office, or calling Social Security's toll-free customer service number at 1-800-772-1213, to verify the legitimacy of the employee and the call. (Those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can call Social Security's TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.) SSA's official website is www.socialsecurity.gov.

Individuals may report suspicious activity involving Social Security programs and operations to the Social Security Fraud Hotline at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/oig/hotline/, or by phone at 1-800-269-0271. (Those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can call the TTY number at
1-866-501-2101.)