Postcards sent to veterans claim entitlement to extra VA benefits or additional payments.
The Department of Veterans Affairs sent a release to make veterans aware of a new postcard scam. Fraudulent postcards are being sent claiming that you, or your spouse, are entitled to “extra VA benefits” or additional payments, including CHAMPVA, TRICARE and dental coverage, regardless of a VA disability rating. The VA stresses not to fall for it.
These scammers claim to be affiliated with VA, and they might instill a sense of urgency, pressuring you to contact them as soon as possible, or within five days. Their goal is to get you to call the number provided. Once you do, they will often use flattery and praise regarding your military service to gain trust. The scammer will attempt to obtain personal identifying information like your Social Security Number, bank account details or other sensitive information.
Never give this information over the phone or on the internet.
VA is monitoring the situation and urges you to remain vigilant against these fraudulent attempts to steal personal identifying information.
The VA encourages you to:
- Refuse to engage.
- Do not call unverified numbers.
- Hang up immediately if you are contacted by unsolicited numbers.
If you miss a VA benefits payment, notice a discrepancy, or suspect suspicious activity with your direct deposit, contact VA right away at 1-800-827-1000.
If you suspect you have experienced fraud, you can find out more and report to the appropriate agency at VSAFE.gov or by calling 1-833-38V-SAFE.
The VA shared the following common scam tactics:
Unsolicited postcards, emails, texts or social media messages: Scammers will send communication claiming you qualify for extra VA benefits.
Fake authority on calls or emails: Scammers may pretend to be VA officials and claim there’s a problem with your benefits or account.
Phishing attacks: Scammers may send emails or text messages that appear legitimate but are designed to steal personal information through malicious links or attachments.
Payment requests: Scammers might demand payment using unconventional and untraceable payment methods, such as gift cards, wire transfers, bitcoin or prepaid debit cards.
Social media interactions: Scammers may try to build trust through social media messages or friend requests, only to exploit that trust for their own financial gain.
To protect yourself:
Never share any personal or financial information with unverified contacts.
Don’t act on urgent requests from people you don’t know. Legitimate VA communications will not pressure you to respond immediately or provide sensitive information.
If you receive a suspicious postcard, email, text or call, do not call the number provided or click on any links.
Always verify the sender’s identity; when in doubt, call VA directly at 1-800-827-1000.
Be cautious on social media. Ignore friend requests or messages from people you don’t know or recognize.
- Veterans Benefits