A new scam warning is circulating across Bexar County, and for many local families, it hits close to home—especially those seeking financial assistance or support services.

County officials are urging residents to be cautious after reports of individuals posing as Bexar County employees, calling residents and offering to help complete assistance applications—for a fee. The message from local authorities is clear: these calls are fraudulent, and no legitimate Bexar County program charges application fees for assistance.

For households already navigating financial uncertainty, the scam adds another layer of risk—one that could lead to identity theft, financial loss, or stolen benefits.

What the Scam Looks Like—and Why It Matters Locally

According to the alert, scammers are contacting residents by phone, claiming to represent Bexar County and offering to help submit applications for financial aid or public assistance programs. In some cases, they may request payment or sensitive personal information, such as Social Security numbers or bank account details.

For Bexar County residents searching for financial assistance programs or how to apply for county assistance in Bexar County, these calls can appear legitimate—especially when scammers use official-sounding language.

However, county officials emphasize that Bexar County does not charge fees to apply for assistance programs. Any request for payment tied to these services should be treated as a red flag.

A Broader Trend: Federal Agencies Warn of Similar Scams

This local alert reflects a growing national trend. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General have both issued warnings about scammers posing as government representatives.

In many cases, these scammers target individuals who may be applying for disability benefits or other aid. They often rely on urgency and pressure, asking victims to “complete the process” by confirming personal details.

The FTC warns that once scammers obtain sensitive information, victims may face identity theft or even benefit theft—where payments are redirected or stolen entirely.

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How Bexar County Residents Can Protect Themselves

Local officials and federal agencies are encouraging residents to take a few key precautions:

• Never share your Social Security number or banking information with someone who calls you unexpectedly
• Do not send money, wire funds, or use prepaid debit cards in response to unsolicited calls
• Be cautious of anyone pressuring you to act immediately
• Verify assistance programs directly through official county or federal websites

If something feels off, it’s worth trusting that instinct.

What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call

Residents who receive a suspicious call are advised to hang up immediately and report the incident.

For non-emergencies, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch can be reached at 210-335-6000 (TTY available). Reporting these calls not only protects your household but also helps law enforcement track and stop ongoing scams in the community.

Residents can also contact the Social Security Administration directly at 1-800-772-1213 if they have questions about disability benefits or suspect fraudulent activity related to benefits applications.

Protecting the Community Starts With Awareness

As Bexar County continues to grow, so does the importance of staying informed and looking out for one another. Scams like these often rely on trust—and spread quickly when people aren’t aware.

Sharing this information with neighbors, family members, and especially seniors or vulnerable residents can make a meaningful difference.

Stay with My Neighborhood News for continued updates and important alerts affecting Bexar County residents.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.