Scam Alert | Beware of PreTexting

Earlier this afternoon, two Purple Card clients independently reported that a team member of theirs received a fraudulent phone call. The callers represented themselves to be with a company contracted by the health plan for their prescription benefits and made it sound as if they already knew about the benefits being offered.

The callers asked:

• if the team member was taking vitamins, heartburn medication, probiotics, etc.
• questions about over-the-counter products covered under their plan.

Be on Alert! This did not come from your health plan!!!

The above is a great example of PRETEXTING. Pretexting is a technique where attackers create a fabricated scenario and use it to force a victim into providing access to sensitive data (or protected systems). Key Reminders:

• Know the source. Be wary of any communication from a doctor or other entity (such as an online prescription service) who initiates contact with you.
• Red-flag unsolicited phone calls. Don’t give out personal or insurance information online or via unsolicited phone calls, surveys or emails asking for your personal info.
• Don’t be tempted by freebies. Be wary of free medication offers. What looks free may end up costing you and your employer more money in the long run.

While social engineering and pretexting may not be a new threat, it’s a persistent one that continues to evolve. Be vigilant y’all!!!

The Purple Card’s commitment to our members requires a constant vigilance to identify potential fraud and once identified, we issue a Scam Alert. The Scam Alert is offered by The Purple Card®, the advocacy initiative of Brinson Benefits, Inc.

At Brinson Benefits, we care about the patient’s best interest. We believe the patient should have an available healthcare navigator and advocate. Our Patient Advocates at The Purple Card® are highly trained to educate members about available benefit programs. They work hard to resolve issues with providers and insurers.

The Purple Card® is an independent health care advocacy and assistance service. Our Patient Advocates provide time and cost-saving services to resolve concerns about benefit programs. We not only assist our members, we educate them on ways to maximize health care coverage and other available benefit programs.