The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning about a growing threat in the healthcare sector: phishing scams designed to steal sensitive patient information. Scammers are impersonating fraud investigators from health insurance companies, reaching out to patients through emails and text messages in an attempt to obtain protected health information, medical records, and personal financial details.
These phishing attempts directly target patients, tricking them into divulging sensitive information that can be used for fraudulent activities or medical identity theft. The FBI emphasizes the importance of being cautious with unsolicited messages, emails, texts, and calls that request personal medical information.
To protect yourself from these scams, follow these critical steps:
- Be suspicious of unsolicited messages requesting personal information.
- Never click on links in suspicious or unsolicited emails.
- Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for all accounts.
- Always verify the authenticity of such messages by directly contacting your health insurance provider using the contact information on the back of your insurance card.
Hackers can cause significant harm with sensitive medical information, making it crucial to protect your data at all costs. Stay vigilant and follow these guidelines to minimize the risk of falling victim to these phishing scams.
