Do You Have Insurance Through MVP? Beware of Scam Calls
MVP Health Care members are being targeted by a sophisticated phishing scam involving automated calls that falsely claim to be from the company’s Fraud Department.
The Scam Unveiled
The scam operates through automated robocalls that mimic official communication from MVP Health Care. The message typically states, “A phone number change has been requested for your MVP account. Press 1 if you did not authorize this request.” Responding to the prompt or engaging with the call can mark a member as a potential target for further fraudulent activity, including attempts to steal personal information or even record voices for use in navigating voice-activated systems tied to accounts.
MVP Health Care, a trusted health insurance provider serving members across New York and Vermont, emphasizes that it takes cybersecurity seriously. The company has warned members not to respond to these calls and to verify any suspicious contact through official channels. “We are constantly working to keep your information safe, and we encourage all members to do the same,” a representative stated.
A Growing Concern
While MVP Health Care has not issued a specific public alert about this particular scam, reports of similar fraudulent calls have surfaced. A Reddit post from May 2023 described repeated suspicious calls claiming to be from MVP, raising concerns among members. Broader warnings from organizations like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and regional health systems, such as MultiCare and Rochester Regional Health, confirm that phishing scams targeting health insurance members are increasingly common. These scams often exploit trust in health care institutions to extract sensitive information.
The absence of a specific alert on MVP’s website does not diminish the credibility of the reports. The company’s fraud reporting page encourages members to report suspicious activity to its Special Investigations Unit at 1-877-TELL-MVP (1-877-835-5687) or anonymously through EthicsPoint at 1-888-357-2687, signaling a proactive stance against fraud.
How to Stay Safe
MVP Health Care and cybersecurity experts offer clear guidance to protect against this phishing scam and others like it. Members should follow these steps:
Don’t Answer Unrecognized Numbers: If the caller ID is unfamiliar, let the call go to voicemail. Review the message and decide whether to respond using a verified number.
Hang Up Immediately: If you suspect a call is fraudulent, end the call without hesitation and block the number to prevent further contact.
Avoid Responding to Prompts: Do not press buttons or answer questions in automated messages. Scammers may use these interactions to identify active numbers or record your voice for fraudulent purposes.
Verify the Caller’s Identity: MVP representatives will always verify a member’s full name and an additional piece of information, such as the address on file. If in doubt, hang up and call the number on the back of your MVP Member ID card or contact MVP through their secure member portal, Gia®.
Use Official Channels: For concerns or verification, reach out directly to MVP Health Care. For example, Medicare members can call 1-800-324-3899, or members can send a secure message via the Gia portal.
Why This Matters
Phishing scams like this one prey on the trust members place in their health insurance providers. By mimicking legitimate communication, scammers aim to exploit vulnerabilities, particularly among vulnerable populations like seniors or those unfamiliar with scam tactics. The potential consequences—ranging from identity theft to unauthorized account access—underscore the importance of vigilance.
Health care scams are a persistent issue across the industry. According to the FTC, scammers frequently use automated calls, fake account alerts, and urgent prompts to pressure victims into acting quickly. MVP Health Care’s proactive advice aligns with these broader warnings, empowering members to protect themselves.
What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted
If you’ve received a suspicious call claiming to be from MVP Health Care, report it immediately to the company’s Special Investigations Unit at 1-877-835-5687. You can also file a report anonymously through EthicsPoint at 1-888-357-2687. Additionally, consider reporting the incident to the FTC at consumer.ftc.gov to help track and combat such scams.
If you inadvertently engaged with the call or provided personal information, take swift action:
Contact MVP Health Care to secure your account.
Monitor your financial and insurance accounts for unauthorized activity.
Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file with major credit bureaus.
A Call for Awareness
As phishing scams grow more sophisticated, awareness and caution are critical defenses. MVP Health Care members should remain vigilant, trusting only verified communications and reporting suspicious activity promptly. By following the recommended safety measures, members can protect their personal information and help curb the spread of these fraudulent schemes.
For more information or to verify suspicious contact, visit www.mvphealthcare.com or contact MVP Health Care directly using the number on your Member ID card. Stay informed, stay cautious, and keep your information secure.