Protect yourself from fraud during COVID-19

Release Date: 05/01/2020
Staff Reference: Shannon DeLenardo

Fraudsters are using fear and uncertainty around COVID-19 to lure people into scams. Don’t let them take advantage of you. The warning signs of fraud are all still applicable so be wary and do not let your guard down to active fraudsters. Protect yourself and your health and dental benefits from scammers with these simple steps.

Step 1: Questions to ask to help spot the warning signs of benefits fraud so you can refuse it.

• Has someone offered you cash or other incentives in exchange for your health benefits policy information?
• Have you been asked to sign a blank claim form?
• Are you feeling pressured by a health or dental service provider to get unnecessary products or procedures?
• Are you being encouraged to submit a claim for products or services that you didn’t receive, or are not covered by your plan?
• Does a health or dental service provider seem more concerned with the details of your insurance coverage than providing the right product or service?
• Are you feeling pressure to include incorrect or misleading information on a claim?
• Has a health or dental service provider used your plan membership information to charge for products and services you never received?

Step 2: Tips to guard yourself against potential fraudsters

• Familiarize yourself with your benefits plan and the limits of your coverage
• Keep your personal benefits plan access information in a safe place and don’t lend your card to anyone
• Be sure you understand the treatments, services, and products being prescribed to you -- don’t be afraid to ask health providers questions!
• Make sure that the explanation of benefits and receipts provided by your insurer contain accurate information about the services or products you received
• If you notice anything suspicious, alert your insurer

Step 3: Think someone is trying to scam you and your health benefits? Report it!

• If you’ve experienced any of the warning signs in step one, you can report it quickly and easily on-line.

Canada’s life and health insurers want to protect you and your benefits plan against health and dental benefits fraud. Learn more at FraudisFraud.ca.