The PACT Act, signed into law in August 2022, expands health care and benefits for veterans exposed to Agent Orange, burn pits, and other toxic substances. While this is great news for millions of veterans, it has also created new opportunities for scammers looking to take advantage of them.
Scammers pose as Veterans Administration (VA) employees and contact veterans through phone calls, emails, social media, and mail, offering to help file benefits claims for a fee.
To combat this, March 6 is National “Slam the Scam” Day, an initiative by the Office of the Inspector General to raise awareness about government imposter scams.
How to Identify and Avoid PACT Act Scams
If you’re a veteran, here are seven ways to protect yourself from scams:
1. Be Wary of Companies Claiming You Need Their Help
- Some companies illegally charge fees for services that are free through the VA.
- Check their credentials using the VA’s Accreditation Tool.
2. Watch for High-Pressure Tactics
- Scammers may tell you to sign a contract immediately or insist “You must act now!”
- A legitimate VA representative will never rush you into making a decision.
3. Avoid Promises of Immediate or Large Payouts
- Claims like “Get fast cash!” or “Huge payouts guaranteed!” are red flags.
- The VA follows a standard claims process, and no company can speed it up.
4. Protect Your Personal Information
Be cautious of calls, emails, or messages asking for:
- Your VA benefits details
- Medical records
- Financial information
The VA and Social Security will NOT call you unless you have pending agency business.
5. Limit What You Share on Social Media
Posting too many personal details makes it easier for criminals to access your accounts and steal your identity.
6. Verify Websites Before Entering Information
- Before submitting personal details online, check for “https://” in the web address.
- The “s” in “https” means the site is secure.
7. Be Cautious of Suspicious Emails, Texts, and Messages
Red flags include:
- Emails from public domains (e.g., gmail.com, yahoo.com). Legitimate government emails will end in .gov (e.g., va.gov, ssa.gov).
- Unexpected links or attachments in emails or texts.
- Urgent requests for action or threats.
- Poor spelling and grammar mistakes.
Where to Report Scams and Get Help
If you suspect a scam, take action immediately.
- Report Social Security-related scams at ssa.gov/scam.
- File a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.FTC.gov.
- Report VA-related fraud to the VSAFE Fraud Hotline at 833-38V-SAFE or visit VSAFE.gov.
- Stay updated on military scams by subscribing to MilitaryConsumer.gov/blog.
- Find more fraud protection tips at Operation Protect Veterans.
Spread the word! Share this information with veterans and loved ones to help keep them safe. Join us on March 6 to “Slam the Scam”!
FAQ:
How do PACT Act scammers target veterans?
Scammers pose as VA employees and contact veterans via phone, email, and social media, offering to help file claims for a fee. They may also promise fast payouts.
How can I verify if someone claiming to be from the VA is legitimate?
Check their credentials using the VA’s online Accreditation Tool at va.gov. The VA will never ask for personal information over the phone unless you have a pending claim.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious call or email about my VA benefits?
Do not share personal details. Hang up or ignore the message. Report it to the VA at VSAFE.gov or call the VSAFE Fraud Hotline at 833-38V-SAFE.
Where can I report a PACT Act scam?
You can report scams to the VA at VSAFE.gov, the FTC at ReportFraud.FTC.gov, or Social Security at ssa.gov/scam.
What is National ‘Slam the Scam’ Day?
Held on March 6, this event raises awareness about government imposter scams and educates veterans on fraud prevention.
