INSS Fraud: Understand Your Rights and Protect Your Benefits

A major investigation recently uncovered a R$6 billion fraud scheme in Brazil’s INSS (Social Security System). Fraudsters used forged documents to obtain retirement, pensions, and disability benefits.

Now, the INSS is reviewing thousands of benefits, and even legitimate beneficiaries may face suspension or cancellation.

If you rely on your benefit to live, stay calm: you have rights, and you can defend them!

What happened?

The fraud scheme included:

• Forged documents (ID cards, birth certificates, employment records);

• Fictitious employment histories;

• Unauthorized benefit approvals.

In response, the INSS is conducting widespread audits.

How to know if your benefit is affected?

You may receive:

• A request to submit updated documents;

• A summons for personal attendance;

• Notifications by mail or email.

Important: Being contacted doesn’t mean you did anything wrong — it’s often a routine check.

What to do if your benefit is suspended?

If your benefit is cut, you should:

1. Immediately contact a Social Security attorney.

2. Gather all documents proving your eligibility (IDs, work contracts, medical reports).

3. Request a copy of the administrative file to know the reason for the suspension.

4. Submit your defense during the administrative process.

5. File a lawsuit if necessary to restore your benefit.

Your rights as a beneficiary

You are entitled to:

• Prior notice before suspension or cancellation;

• Access to your case documents;

• The right to present your defense;

• The right to appeal INSS decisions;

• Judicial protection if administrative defenses fail.

If INSS cancels your benefit without notice or defense opportunity, it’s illegal.

Who should be most alert?

• Retirees by contribution time;

• Survivors receiving pensions;

• Disability benefit holders;

• BPC/LOAS recipients (elderly and disabled aid).

The fight against fraud cannot punish honest beneficiaries.

If your benefit was suspended or canceled, you can and should defend your rights.

Act fast. Consult an experienced Social Security lawyer to protect your livelihood.