Scammers Exploit 3M Settlement, Targeting Veterans Eligible for Compensation in 3M Hearing Protection Lawsuit

(KNSI) — Veterans are being warned about a new scam targeting those potentially covered by the multi-billion dollar 3M settlement over defective hearing protection.

Scammers have seized on the opportunity to attempt to gather Social Security Numbers and personal data while posing as settlement administration firm Archer Systems, LLC, which is handling the case. The telephone number for claimants to call was posted online, and the judge in the case says scammers have spoofing software and are using it to disguise their actual caller ID information to appear legitimate.

Archer Systems is not making any unsolicited contacts with claimants. They only contact those who have submitted an inquiry and do not ask for personal information such as phone numbers and Social Security Numbers. The company has its own verification questions and processes.

Authorities say to never give out personal information over the phone or via email to anyone. The judge says should a claimant receive an unsolicited communication from a person or entity representing themselves as someone from Archer, hang up or delete the email. Anyone who receives a message should not call the person back.

The FBI has been contacted about the scam.

Service members sued 3M, the parent company that manufactured, marketed and sold defective Combat Arms earplugs to the military. According to the lawsuit, hundreds of thousands of veterans suffered hearing damage or loss due to the faulty products.

3M has agreed to pay those affected $6 billion.

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