The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and Social Security Administration (SSA) commonly examine social media accounts to determine if recipients are fraudulently claiming Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. An article detailing their review process appears here.
Those receiving SSDI benefits—or with claims under review—must be careful with information shared on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter; as the SSA monitors the social media of beneficiaries.
Social Media to Play an Expanding Role
Currently, the OIG and SSA’s investigative units review social media account for fraudulent activity. However, the new 2020 budget proposal would allow them to expand reviews in order to evaluate applicants with new claims for SSDI benefits. A spokesperson for the SSA indicated adjudicators could use social media to determine the consistency of supporting evidence.
Lingering Concerns
Critics express concerns over data privacy, even before SSA details how they plan to use social media during the approval process. Worries include the authentication of end-user profiles, since user accounts are seldom linked tied to unique identifiers. Authentication may very well require SSA approach social media companies for back-end user data.
Some have concerns social media is an incorrect measure of the average user’s lifestyle. Users will only post what they want others to see. To complicate things, posts commonly involve memories instead of current events. Opponents worry SSA could deny an application if a claimant shares photos of a vacation, trip, or activity that took place before their disability.
Another worry critics raise regarding review of a claimant’s social media is that approvals are complicated and time-consuming already. They fear adding further steps to an already complex approval process puts additional strain on applicants who are already out of work and struggling.
Always Be Careful
Applicants for SSDI should avoid social media posts regarding their injury or claim. Authorities can use this information to deny benefits at a hearing. Damaging posts on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter can impact a judge’s opinion of a claimant and hurt their claim.
We Can Help
If you or a loved one has been denied Social Security Disability Insurance benefits to which you are entitled, call Caddell Reynolds for help at 800-671-4100. When you call, you’ll speak with one of our top Arkansas Social Security Attorneys absolutely FREE.
At Caddell Reynolds, we will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Our experienced Arkansas Social Security Disability Lawyers understand these complex claims—and can help you qualify to receive the full benefits you deserve.
Caddell Reynolds Law Firm will be by your side every step of the way. Call us for your Free Legal Consultation at 800-671-4100 today. At Caddell Reynolds, there is never an attorney’s fee due up front. In fact, you owe us nothing until we recover for you. We have offices conveniently located throughout Arkansas to better serve you.
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