Is a call saying my National Insurance or Social Security number has been used in a crime real?
No. This is a government impersonation scam. Your number has not been suspended, and no agency will call you threatening arrest.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
This call is one of the most reported scam types worldwide. A robocall or live caller claims to be from the Social Security Administration, HMRC, or another government body and says your national identity number has been linked to drug trafficking, money laundering, or another serious crime. You are warned that your benefits will be suspended or that an arrest warrant is outstanding. To 'protect' yourself, you must confirm your number, transfer funds to a safe account, or stay on the line while the 'investigation' proceeds. No government agency suspends an identity number by phone, threatens immediate arrest for unverified crimes, or asks you to move money or buy gift cards.
Common red flags
- Call claims your identity number is linked to criminal activity
- Threat of immediate arrest unless you co-operate
- Asked to confirm your full identity number to a caller you didn't initiate
- Told to withdraw cash or buy gift cards to protect your funds
- Caller instructs you not to tell anyone and to stay on the line
What to do now
- Hang up immediately
- Do not call back any number left in a voicemail
- Report to your national fraud reporting service
- Reassure any vulnerable family members — this call is always a scam
Frequently asked questions
Could my number genuinely have been misused?
Identity theft does occur, but it is not investigated by phone calls threatening arrest. If you have concerns, contact the relevant government agency using the number on their official website.