Indiana State Health Department Warns of Identity Theft Which Can Lead To Bankruptcy
INDIANAPOLIS---State Health officials are warning Hoosiers of fraudulent calls that have been reported in Lake and Hancock counties involving a supposed drawing for shopping sprees, and an offer for discounted prescription drug cards. State Health Commissioner Judith A. Monroe, M.D. stressed that these are fraudulent calls. “Our agency is not sponsoring any such contests, and is not offering discounted prescription drug cards,” she said, adding that the agency has contacted the Attorney General’s office.
In this scam, the caller identifies themselves from the Indiana State Department of Health, and says the agency is having a drawing giving away one $1,000 shopping spree to one winner in each county, and is trying to give away prescription drug cards worth 70 percent off all prescriptions. In one call, the caller identified himself as Nick Dawson, and gave an identification number as Indiana HQA125. The caller is asking for personal information, including birth date, banking institution, home address, and if the person has declared bankruptcy. The caller then states that information will be sent to them in the mail.
“This time of year, offers and opportunities to receive free merchandise or services is enticing, but it is critical to remember that divulging personal and financial account information can be devastating,” Attorney General Steve Carter added. “When someone gets a hold of your banking or credit account numbers, it can result in significant damage to your financial history as well as take years to remedy. Guard your personal information like you would your wallet or pocketbook and report instances of potential fraud to the authorities so that others can be alerted.”
