The Coalition Against Insurance Fraud sheds light on a new trend watch that involves scam artists cold-calling or traveling door-to-door and stealing consumers’ financial information under the pretext of the new Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA).
Consumers have reported in over 24 states that they have been a victim of these sales pitches since the ACA’s proclamation of open-enrollment beginning this upcoming October. These scam artists are capitalizing on the confusion brought on by Obamacare, and targeting those with private health care and seniors enrolled in Medicare, as well.
Scam artists lead their pitches claiming that they are with the federal government and need information from you, but according to the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud, this is a big red flag because “Washington is not currently sending out operatives to obtain personal data involving the ACA.”
Reported variations in pitches:
“The ACA requires you to report your personal information to the federal government.”
“Congratulations. You’re among the first consumers to receive your official Health Reform card.”
“We need to verify your financial information to sign you up for ‘Obamacare’ coverage.”
“We’re sending you a new Medicare card that reflects changes under the ACA.”
“You’ll go to jail unless you sign up for ‘Obamacare’ coverage now.”
“There is a limited open-enrollment period, so sign up now.”
There have been enough of these claims throughout the US that urgent consumer alerts, which highlight the damage that identity theft can leave on a family or individual after thousands of dollars are stolen, have been released by the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud.
If you, family, or friends encounter or are approached by anyone claiming they are trying to collect your personal information for the ACA or Obamacare, “just close the door or hang up the phone and report the scam to law enforcement,” urges the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud.