Consumer Alert: Fake Insurance
Posted in Coronavirus (COVID-19), In the news on May 8, 2020
Ohio Department of Insurance Director Jillian Froment advises Ohioans to be alert for a new scam. Individuals pretending to be licensed insurance agents are contacting consumers to sell fake insurance products. Oftentimes, crooks call from fake numbers, lack a legitimate license and market COVID-19 coverage.
Fake insurance products
The types of fake insurance products currently being marketed include:
- Health insurance
- Travel insurance
- Coronavirus-related insurance fraud scams (e.g. delivering COVID-19 test kits in exchange for personal information)
Consumer tips
- Be wary of anyone that emphasizes COVID-19 coverage.
- If you’re looking to buy health insurance, read the policy carefully.
- Never give sensitive information to anyone unless you know who you’re dealing with. Ohioans can verify an agent’s or agency’s legitimacy on the Ohio Department of Insurance’s website.
Next steps
Report suspected misconduct by calling 1-800-686-1527 or visiting the Ohio Department of Insurance’s website. Click here for additional information on scams.