Scammers will use any information they have about you to trick you into the heist. A new scam is preying on veterans who are making decisions about their medical care. If you use the Veterans Choice Program, this scam could affect you.
The Veterans Choice Program (VCP) is an initiative of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It’s a new, temporary benefit that allows eligible vets to receive health care in their communities, rather than waiting for a VA appointment or traveling to a VA facility. Veterans and their families can call the VCP’s toll-free number (1-866-606-8198) to qualify. Here’s where the scam comes in: Scammers have set up a phony telephone number that closely resembles the Veterans Choice Program’s real number.
The fake line has a recorded message for incoming callers who may have unsuspectingly dialed the wrong number. You call, thinking you’ve reached the VCP, and are greeted with a fake message that says you’re entitled to a rebate if you provide a credit card number. If you give up your account information, they’ll debit your card and leave you with nothing in return. There’s no rebate, just a scammer with your card number and the unfortunate errand of canceling and replacing your card.
The VA also has set up an identity theft prevention program specifically for veterans, with an ID theft help line. Check out the “More Than a Number” website and share this information with the veterans in your life. If you or someone you know has been a victim of identity theft, report it to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov.
