According to a fraud alert issued March 3 by the real OIG, the con artists
...can alter the appearance of the caller ID to make it seem as if the call is coming from the HHS OIG Hotline 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477). The perpetrator may use various tactics to obtain or verify the victim's personal information, which can then be used to steal money from an individual's bank account or for other fraudulent activity.
The agency is investigating and reminds the public that the agency will never ask people for personal information. Providers should make sure their patients, particularly the elderly and their family members, are aware of the scam. Remind them of the OIG's basic safety rule for handling calls from strangers: If they ask for personal information, don't tell or verify.
That information could include:
- Social Security number.
- Birth date.
- Credit card information including the expiration date or security code.
- Driver's license or state ID number.
- Any bank account information.
- Mother's maiden name.
People who know or suspect that they've been contacted by the crooks should call the OIG hotline: HHS OIG Hotline 1-800-447-8477 or email spoof@oig.hhs.gov. They may also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission by calling 1-877-382-4357.