With millions of scams reported each year and billions of dollars lost, it’s important to know how to identify reliable information, spot scams, and know what to do if you’re scammed.
Two of the surest ways to protect yourself are to learn how to recognize reliable information and know the red flags for scams.
What are some signs of trustworthy information?
- Clear source: From a trusted expert or organization
- Evidence-based: Supported by research or data
- Up to date: Recently reviewed or updated
- Cited sources: Includes references or links to studies
- Neutral tone: No fear, hype, or cures for all
- Consistent information: Matches other trusted health sources
- No hidden agenda: Not trying to sell you anything
Important information from your health plan or medical provider will usually be mailed or sent through a secure online portal. If you’re unsure whether a call, text, or other communication can be trusted, it’s always a good idea to call your insurer or health care provider to confirm whether a message has come from them. Be sure to grab the number from a trusted source like your insurance card or the official website for your health plan or doctor.
What are some red flags for scams?
- Urgency and pressure. You should be cautious if someone pressures you to act urgently. For example, a caller might claim that your insurance plan will be canceled if you don’t take immediate action. Scammers often rely on fear and time pressure to get you to act fast, before you’ve had time to fully question what they’re saying.
- Promises or demands for money. Be skeptical of sudden, unexpected requests for payment, offers to help you for a fee, and promises of guaranteed money.
- Requests to “verify” your personal information. Scammers might ask for your Medicare number, social security number, date of birth, banking information, address, or other sensitive details to gain access to your health plan, identity, or other resources.
- Miracle cures that promise to fix everything. If an offer sounds too good to be true, be cautious: scammers might dangle unbelievable promises like free medical equipment, surprise refunds, or large allowances.
- Unexpected texts, calls, and emails. Scammers might claim to be from your health plan, your doctor’s office, or your pharmacy. Be skeptical, especially if you’re receiving a call from an unknown number or a message from a sender you don’t recognize.
When in doubt, call a trusted number for your health plan, doctor’s office, or whoever the caller or sender is claiming to be. They can verify whether the communication is legitimate.
If you’re a Quartz member, know that we will never ask for your social security number, Medicare number, banking information, or credit card number over the phone. You can always reach out to our Customer Success team to confirm whether a call or message has come from us.
What should you do if you think you’ve been scammed?
- Stop communicating with the scammer, and be sure not to click any links they have sent.
- Contact your financial institution, insurer, or health care provider immediately.
- Change passwords for email, banking, and any portals used to manage your health plan or medical care.
- Report the scam to government agencies.
To get a customized recovery plan based on your situation, visit IdentityTheft.gov. Some additional resources are also included below.
Recursos adicionales
Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice
- consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-do-if-you-were-scammed?
- 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357)
Identify Theft Recovery
Reporting Medicare fraud & abuse
- medicare.gov/basics/reporting-medicare-fraud-and-abuse
- 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
AARP Fraud Watch Network
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, & Consumer Protection
Wisconsin Identity Theft Resources
