If you ever suspect you have been contacted by a robo call scam, report the call to our Anti-Fraud Hotline at 1-800-482-3787 (or through this online form) and to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).
The Robo Call Issue At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, the safety and security of our members is of the utmost importance. So, when we learn about suspicious or fraudulent behavior occurring, we take every step we can to investigate and remedy the situation to prevent further damage. This was the case when we discovered several of our members had received phone calls from individuals claiming to represent Blue Cross, asking for personal information and posing potential security threats. Thanks to our members’ vigilance, we were quickly alerted to the issue and have improved our processes to investigate these scams. However, we also want to make sure our members have the knowledge necessary to recognize and report fraudulent robo calls, if received. Being Cautious with Robo Calls There are a few clues that may indicate you’ve received a robo call under the guise of a Blue Cross representative. Here are a few red flags to look out for:
- As a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan or Blue Care Network member, we already have your information on file. If a caller asks for personal information, it is likely a scam. Do not provide any personal information they may ask for including, but not limited to, your social security number, date of birth, credit card information, driver's license number, bank account information or mother's maiden name.
- If a caller reaches out hoping to schedule a meeting to discuss changes in your plan, but you have not received a notification about a change through a letter or email, the caller may be luring you into a scam to sell other insurance or products not provided by Blue Cross.
- If you receive a call about a coverage issue or claim you did not bring to the company’s attention, it is likely the caller is a fraud.
Taking Action So, what should you do when situations like these arise? At Blue Cross, we’re able to swiftly investigate and shut down robo call scams and have outlined steps you can take to protect your information and prevent others from falling victim. While reporting the calls to us is important for our knowledge, it is crucial that you report the call to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) as well because Blue Cross and Blue Care Network are not authorized to submit complaints to the FTC on a member’s behalf. When speaking with the FTC, be sure to include the date and time you received the scam call as well as any other memorable details of the call. When in Doubt, Hang Up If you are uncertain about the legitimacy of the outreach you’re receiving, do not give out personal information, and simply end the call. Next, report the call to our Anti-Fraud Hotline at 1-800-482-3787 or through this online form. If you do give out your personal information to a fraudulent caller before realizing what has happened, contact your local police department to let them know. With that information, Blue Cross’ Corporate and Financial Investigations Unit is able to take action and stop fraud in its tracks to protect you and others. For more information on how Blue Cross strives to protect and serve its members, check out these blog posts:
- What Is Health Care Fraud (and How Do We Keep Your Data Safe)?
- CFI and Pharmacy Services Fighting Fraud
- Serving our Members through Strong Performance
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