COVID-19 Health Care Fraud Alert
On 3/23/2020, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) issued a message from the Principal Deputy Inspector General, Christi A. Grimm, warning about several health care fraud scams taking place that are related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Scammers are preying on unsuspecting patients and their family members by marketing fake COVID test kits, and unapproved treatments through telemarketing calls, social media platforms and door-to-door visits while attempting to steal personal and medical information such as Medicare numbers, social security numbers and financial information.
Here are some ways you can protect your personal information:
- Do not give out your personal information to someone soliciting door-to-door, over the phone or by email unless you initiated the contact and have verified who you are communicating with.
- If you are unsure about sharing your personal information with someone– DON’T. Contact the company, medical facility, or insurance company directly to ensure you are reaching out to the correct place or health representative.
- Treat your medical information with the same caution you do with any of your other sensitive information. Don’t share your information with strangers. Shred and dispose any medical documents you no longer need.
For more information on how to protect yourself against COVID-19 testing fraud, please click here.
If you think you may be a victim of the COVID-19 testing fraud, please report your concerns to the OIG immediately.
Office of Inspector General:
800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477)
-OR-
National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline:
866-720-5721
https://oig.hhs.gov
View the COVID-19 Health Care Fraud Alert pdf
