If you’re in the market for health insurance, you need to be vigilant about potential scams. Recent reports indicate a rise in fraudulent activities targeting individuals going through the Medicaid renewal process. Dubbed Medicaid unwinding, scammers are preying on vulnerable individuals in Minnesota who have had their Medical Assistance or Medicaid renewal paperwork rejected and are now seeking new health insurance options.
The CEO of MNsure, Libby Caulum, expressed her concern over the situation, stating that scammers are taking advantage of those desperately seeking coverage. It’s a heartbreaking scenario, as individuals grappling with their health are being targeted during a time when they are most vulnerable.
To combat this growing problem, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises individuals to completely cut off communication with any suspicious parties. Be cautious of unsolicited calls, especially if the caller begins requesting personal information like credit card details or Social Security numbers. It’s important to remember that MNsure will never cold call to sell health insurance or provide your information to a broker without your consent. They will also never ask for sensitive information like your Social Security number, credit card number, or bank account details.
One of the telltale signs of a potential scam is if the caller becomes overly insistent, trying to keep you on the phone for as long as possible in an attempt to extract personal information. Legitimate insurance companies will never demand immediate payment or threaten you.
To protect yourself, the BBB advises asking the caller questions and verifying any information they provide. It’s wise to have a script ready, asking who they are, what their business is, and informing them that you will verify the information provided before proceeding with the conversation. If necessary, hang up and contact the company directly using their official phone number to confirm the caller’s identity.
In addition to these precautions, it’s recommended to block persistent numbers or emails and double-check website URLs to ensure they’re legitimate. If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a scam, report it. Make note of the scammer’s name, organization, contact information, and the website they used.
MNsure has set up an anonymous complaints telephone line at 844-466-7873 to collect scam reports, which are then forwarded to the Minnesota Department of Commerce Enforcement Division for investigation.
The Better Business Bureau’s scam tracker is another valuable resource for reporting and sharing experiences with scams. By utilizing this tool, you can help warn others in your community about potential scams and save them from the heartache and financial toll of falling victim to fraudulent activities.
Stay vigilant and remember to prioritize your safety and security when dealing with health insurance matters. With the rise of these Medicaid renewal scams, it’s crucial to be cautious and take the necessary steps to protect yourself from falling prey to fraudsters.
Remember, when it comes to your health and personal information, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
