Social Security offices forced to close because of unspecified tech problem

A technology problem on Friday forced the Social Security Administration to close offices, while also hampering its ability to offer online services.

The government agency cited a “hardware issue” that it said is hampering its ability to provide services both in person and on its website. Reports of people being unable to access their My Social Security accounts surged starting Friday morning and continued into the afternoon, according to DownDetector.com. 

The Social Security Administration said its offices are closed today to in-person services. The agency is continuing to answer general questions by telephone. 

“[W]e do not know when they [offices] will reopen,” SSA public affairs specialist Erin Thompson told CBS affiliate WTOL.

The Social Security Administration didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.