On March 23, HHS-OIG became the latest federal agency to issue an alert warning of COVID-19 related scams. Specifically, HHS-OIG stated that “[s]cammers are offering COVID-19 tests to Medicare beneficiaries in exchange for personal details, including Medicare information. However, the services are unapproved and illegitimate.”
The fraud alert also warned that “fraudsters are targeting beneficiaries in a number of ways, including telemarketing calls, social media platforms, and door-to-door visits.” HHS-OIG warns that Medicare beneficiaries should be cautious of unsolicited requests for Medicare or Medicaid numbers, be suspicious of any unexpected calls or visitors offering COVID-19 tests or supplies, and ignore offers or advertisements for such services or treatments.