KEARNY COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities in western Kansas are investigating a new twist on a scam.

The victim received a call from someone saying that they were from the Social Security Administration and that the victim was eligible for an increase in benefits, according to the Kearny County Sheriff’s Department.

In order to receive the increase, the caller needed to confirm personal information.

The caller then began giving out information about the victim such as immediate family names, making the victim think it was a legitimate call.

Information likely came from an obituary that was posted on-line, according to the sheriff’s department.

The caller then obtained banking information from the victim. After the call the victim’s information with the Social Security Administration was changed so that the benefit check was routed from the victim’s bank to a bank out of state.

The victim’s bank noticed the change and notified the victim and the Social Security Administration to stop payment to the alternate bank.

Authorities reminded not give out your financial information unless you are absolutely sure of the caller.