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BBB is warning today of an impostor scam targeting local patients. Beware that incoming calls from phone numbers associated with a local doctor’s office may have been spoofed.
Scammers like to use technology to modify numbers that show on a caller ID to trick you into answering the phone. The scammer then proceeds to impersonate the doctor’s office whose phone number is appearing.
A recent study released by BBB shows impostor scams continue to be costly. BBB warns people to use caution if they are contacted by anyone asking for money or information.
If you’re not certain whether the call is legitimate or a spoof, hang up and dial the known phone number you find for the business. Verify the communication, especially if personal and/or financial information is requested.
According to the BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report, impersonation is a very common tactic used by scammers. Impostor scams come in all shapes and sizes with the same intent - to trick you out of your money and/or personal information.
Tips to avoid this local impostor scam
- Stay calm. If you receive any of these impostor calls, resist the urge to act immediately, no matter how dramatic the story is or how threatening or intimidating the caller sounds.
- Don't reply directly. Don’t respond to the call. Instead, call the company directly to verify the phone call received.
- Go to the source or get help. When in doubt, call a friend, loved one or your local BBB to ask for a second opinion. Regardless of what is said in the phone conversation, tell someone.
For more information
Learn more tips on how to avoid scams by going to BBB.org/ScamTips. If you have been the victim of this or another fraud, make others aware by filing a report on BBB.org/ScamTracker.