Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and a government agency is highlighting one form of abuse that seems to chronically target the elderly.

Jack Myers with Social Security says not only do scams habitually target and victimize the elderly, but they also come in the form of imposters mimicking Social Security agents.

Recently, Social Security personnel have been made aware of the fact many of these swindlers are impersonating Social Security badges. Myers says they'll use government symbols, words, or even names and photos of real people to appear authentic.

Identifying if a call or correspondence is a scam might help knowing how Social Security is going to get a hold of you. Myers indicates Social Security will never text or email an image of an employee's identification nor will they suspend your Social Security number or threaten you with arrest or other legal action.

According to Myers, Social Security will never ask for you to pay by retail gift card, a wire transfer, or internet currency. Additionally, be aware of claims of promises of increased benefits in exchange for payment.

Myers points out, you may owe Social Security money, however, those notices will come in the form of a letter with payment options and appeal rights. 

Myers encourages any attempts of these that may come your way to report them to the Office of the Inspector General by visiting oig.ssa.gov.