Passport Cancellation Scam
Threat Type
The passport cancellation scam involves fraudsters threatening to cancel or revoke victims’ passports, often claiming it’s due to alleged Social Security-related issues.
Communication Method
Scammers typically initiate contact through unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages, creating a sense of urgency about potential passport cancellation.
Demands or Actions Requested
In this passport cancellation scam, fraudsters often demand immediate payment or personal information to “prevent” the alleged cancellation of the passport.
Red Flags
Key warning signs include unexpected contact, threats of immediate passport cancellation, and pressure to act quickly. Legitimate government agencies never threaten to cancel passports without proper notification or demand immediate action.
Scammer Claims
Imposters may claim that discrepancies in your Social Security records will result in the cancellation of your passport if not addressed immediately. They might also assert that your passport has been involved in criminal activity.
Psychological Manipulation Tactics
These scammers exploit fear of losing travel privileges and create a false sense of urgency. The passport cancellation scam preys on people’s reliance on their passport for international travel and identification.
Target Audience
This scam often targets frequent travelers, business professionals, or those planning upcoming international trips.
Payment Methods Demanded
If payment is requested to “prevent” passport cancellation, scammers typically insist on untraceable methods such as gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Impersonation Techniques
To appear legitimate, scammers may use spoofed phone numbers, official-sounding language, or fake badge numbers. They might even provide names of real government employees to seem credible.
How to Verify Legitimacy
Always verify communications by contacting the U.S. Department of State or the Social Security Administration directly through their official websites or phone numbers. Remember, these agencies will never threaten to cancel your passport over the phone or demand immediate payment.
What to Do if Targeted
If you encounter a passport cancellation scam, hang up immediately. Do not provide any personal information or make payments. Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs.
Preventive Measures
Stay informed about common passport scams, never share personal or financial information over unsolicited calls, and remember that passport matters are handled by the U.S. Department of State, not the Social Security Administration. If in doubt, contact the appropriate agency directly through official channels.
