How to protect yourself against health insurance scams

The first step is to avoid sharing personal information with strangers

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Many people are ready to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace, allowing them to choose health coverage that meets their needs and budget.

Unfortunately, there are scam artists ready to take advantage of you. They ask for personal information and other details to then take your money.

The Federal Trade Commission has already received reports about scams in which people call to offer discounted health plans and enrollment discounts.

Protect yourself against fraud

Follow these guidelines to protect yourself against fraud and scams:

• Ignore calls from people who say they're government officials who want you to verify or give out personal information.
• Identify the types of calls from scam artists to reject them.
• Do not respond to calls from people offering to help you choose or enroll in a health insurance plan.
• Avoid sharing your bank account, credit card or Social Security number to people who say they're with the Health Insurance Marketplace.

To report a scam or report someone for fraud, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-877-382-4357.  

To learn more about health issues, visit USA.gov and GobiernoUSA.gov, the U.S. Government's official web portals in English and Spanish, and part of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA).

SOURCE GobiernoUSA.gov/USA.gov