FBI Issues Warning on Costly Medical Insurance Scams

The FBI has issued a nationwide warning about a surge in discount medical insurance scams that cost Americans millions of dollars annually. Scammers typically contact individuals through unsolicited calls, texts, or emails, using false promises of affordable coverage and high-pressure sales tactics. Victims often discover the fraud only after incurring significant medical expenses and finding out their policies provide no real coverage, sometimes also facing unauthorized charges or denied refunds. Authorities in several states, including Washington and Pennsylvania, have issued cease-and-desist orders in response to numerous complaints and large, unexpected medical bills. The FBI advises verifying insurance offers with state regulators and the Better Business Bureau, confirming provider acceptance, and being wary of high-pressure sales and upfront payment requests. Anyone targeted by these schemes is urged to report incidents to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.