Potential COVID-19 Scams

As we continue to take steps to get through this pandemic, BlueChoice HealthPlan of South Carolina would like to share our concerns regarding potential COVID-19 scams.  

Fraudsters are targeting people in many ways, including door-to-door visits, via social media platforms (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, etc.) and telemarketing. Here are some situations you and your family should be aware of: 

  • Be cautious of unsolicited requests — by phone, email or social media — asking for your personal information, including health insurance information, bank account information or informing you of suspicious activity on your SSN card. Do not confirm or offer any information including your SSN, Medicare number or health insurance policy number. If your personal information is compromised, it can be used for other fraud schemes.
  • If you receive unexpected calls or in-person visits offering COVID-19 supplies or tests, be cautious. Most door-to-door offers of free health care services are fraudulent. 
  • Ignore social media sites offering COVID-19 testing or treatments. These advertisements are most likely fraudulent. Seek testing services from your reputable local providers.
  • Robocalls continue to offer free masks and/or gloves during the pandemic. Be aware and do not offer any personal information including your SSN, Medicare number or health insurance policy number.
  • Other items offered by scammers include fake test kits, protective equipment, cures, pills or drug therapies that claim to make you immune. 

Be cautious of pop-up COVID-19 testing sites. Some red flags include: 

  1. No affiliation with a local medical provider or government health department
  2. Offers of additional testing that will be performed beyond COVID-19
  3. Test sites offering free testing for Medicare recipients, extra tests for non-Medicare patients or not taking private insurance at all

BlueChoice HealthPlan of South Carolina and our network providers are here to help assist members during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are committed to stopping insurance fraud. If you have encountered a situation like the ones listed above and have information that could be beneficial to prevent fraud, please contact the Anti-Fraud Hotline at 800-763-0703 additional ways to report fraud. You can remain anonymous. For more information or to report a suspected case of fraud, please visit our parent company's website. Please stay safe and continue to be aware and vigilant for scams during this time.