Attorney General Ellison warns consumers of healthcare provider imposter scams

March 8, 2024 (SAINT PAUL) – Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison today warned consumers of ongoing imposter scams targeting people across the Midwest following the recent cyberattack against UnitedHealth Group subsidiary Change Healthcare, the largest healthcare payment system in the United States, and the destabilizing effect that attack has had on large parts of the healthcare industry across the country.

State hospital associations have received reports from patients who have been targeted by scammers seeking to steal their credit card information. Scammers claiming to be representatives from various healthcare providers are telling patients they will receive refunds if they provide their credit card number.

“I am urging all Minnesotans to be on the lookout for calls from scammers pretending to be your healthcare provider and asking for your credit card number,” said Attorney General Ellison. “If you receive a call like this, do not provide any information. Instead, you should hang up, then dial your medical provider yourself to determine whether they actually need your payment information.”

“If you do receive any suspicious calls like this, please report them to my office as soon as possible,” added Ellison. “Remember, these scammers make a living by tricking people. They are sophisticated, experienced, and persuasive, so be on your guard.”

Consumers are encouraged to file a complaint with the Office of Attorney General Keith Ellison online using the Consumer Assistance Request Form. Minnesota consumers may also contact the Attorney General’s Office by calling (651) 296-3353 (Metro), (800) 657-3787 (Greater Minnesota), or (800) 627-3529 (Minnesota Relay).