The Erie County Office of Consumer Protection was alerted to a potential Medical Device Scam that may be targeting individuals in our area. We want to alert consumers to this and ensure that residents know what to look for to avoid being scammed.
Have you received an unsolicited call from an agent who claims to work for NY Connects and says you are eligible for a free medical alert device? Or from a representative claiming your doctor ordered the device for you? Most likely the person calling is not who they say they are and are trying to obtain personal and financial information from you as part of a scam.
The New York State Division of Consumer Protection offers the following tips to avoid this type of scam:
- Hang up, without pressing any key.
- If you take the call, identify who is calling and what company they represent. Make sure to get an address and a phone number for the business.
- Never provide personal or financial information over the phone, including your name, address, date of birth, or Medicare and Social Security numbers.
- Even though the displayed phone numbers may be fake, you should report the phone numbers on your caller ID to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint or 1-888-382-1222.
- Contact your telephone service provider and request to block robocall numbers. Avoid paying for this protection, as caller ID-displayed numbers are changed frequently.
- Remember that AARP does not ask for personal information, conduct financial transactions, or promote commercial activities over the phone.
If you or a loved one needs a medical alert device, get recommendations from your health care provider or a social service agency. Visit the Erie County Department of Senior Services’ website for more information on Personal Emergency Response Systems.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office for assistance if you have been scammed or have questions about avoiding or reporting a medical device scam. The Erie County Office of Consumer Protection can be reached by phone at 716-858-1987 or via email to consumerprotection@erie.gov. Consumer Protection complaints can also be submitted through our website.