There’s a lot of uncertainty and misinformation going around about Obamacare. That’s natural: It’s a big change for millions of people, and the details are complicated.
We’re doing our best to help folks make informed and financially smart decisions with stories like “Understanding Obamacare: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum” and “Understanding Obamacare: 4 Things You Need to Know.” Check out the video below from that story:
Meanwhile, scammers are doing their best to help themselves to your money. CNNMoney got the Federal Trade Commission’s list of the most common tactics — so far — that scammers are using to take advantage of people’s lack of knowledge about Obamacare. Here’s what to watch for:
- People charging for advice. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is spending millions to train “navigators” who will help consumers find the insurance information they need. Some scammers are posing as navigators and trying to assess fees for their services. The people really trained for these jobs don’t charge.
- Medicare cards. Scammers are saying Obamacare requires people to get a new Medicare card, and that to get it, you’ll have to hand over personal information like your Social Security number and bank account number. You don’t need a new card, and you shouldn’t give personal information to people who call up and ask for it.
- Government employees. Nobody from the federal government is going to call you about health insurance, and even if they did they wouldn’t ask for personal information over the phone. Ignore calls, texts or emails from supposed government officials soliciting your information.
You can report suspected Obamacare fraud online or by calling (800) 318-2596.
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