BBB warns of healthcare scams during special enrollment period

(KOAM) - The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is alerting consumers to healthcare scams that often target individuals during the special enrollment period for health insurance. Scammers pose as government officials to steal personal information for identity theft or fraudulent medical charges.

Common tactics include fake calls or messages claiming to be from Medicare or HealthCare.gov, asking for personal details to issue new cards or offer free services. In some cases, scammers use threats of penalties for not purchasing insurance.

Tips to Avoid Scams:

• Don’t trust unfamiliar names or numbers. Scammers use spoofed numbers to appear legitimate.
• Visit official websites like Medicare.gov or Healthcare.gov for any health insurance needs.
• Never share personal information, such as your Medicare number or Social Security number, with unsolicited contacts.
• Be aware that Medicare will never ask you for personal details via email, text, or phone.

For more information on how to protect yourself, visit the BBB Scam Tracker and explore their resources on avoiding scams.

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