Fraud Alert: HHS-OIG Telephone Numbers Used in Scam
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) confirmed that official HHS-OIG telephone numbers are being used as part of a spoofing scam targeting individuals throughout the country. These scammers represent themselves as HHS-OIG employees and can alter the appearance of the caller ID to make it seem as if the call is coming from HHS OIG phone numbers found on its public website. The perpetrator may use various tactics to obtain or verify the victim's personal information, which can then be used to steal money from an individual's bank account or for other fraudulent activity.
We encourage the public to remain vigilant, protect their personal information, and guard against providing personal information during calls that purport to be from HHS-OIG telephone numbers. We also remind the public that it is still safe to call into the HHS-OIG Hotline to report fraud. We particularly encourage those who believe they may have been a victim of the telephone spoofing scam to report that information to us through the HHS-OIG Hotline 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477) or online. Individuals may also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).
Other Resources
Protect Yourself
Do not provide any personal information to unknown individuals, including any of the following information:
- a social security number
- date of birth
- credit card information
- driver's license number
- bank account information
- mother's maiden name
Do not verify your name or any other personal information. Be extremely cautious.
Report the Scam
If you are a victim of the telephone spoofing scam, contact the HHS-OIG Hotline or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
Be sure to include:
- date and time you received the scam the call
- any other details from the scam call
Last updated January 26, 2024