How to Recognize a Robocall

Health Insurance Scam

What they’ll say: “Open enrollment has passed, but luckily that doesn’t mean you’ll be without coverage this year. New laws in place still allow you to get an affordable health insurance plan from an A-rated insurer at a price that you and your family can afford. Press 1 now to speak to an agent.”

The goal: Often this is a lead-generation operation (to get private information they can sell to others or use later). Some of these calls will legitimately connect you to a local insurance agent; others are pure scams.

Use good sense: Do not respond to inquiries like this over the phone. Instead, if you’re looking for lower-cost health insurance, your best option is to contact the State Health Insurance Assistance Program in your state. (Find it at shiptacenter.org.) The counseling is free. If you are under age 65 and not yet eligible for Medicare, go to healthcare.gov for options on the individual market.

Jury Duty Scam

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What they’ll say: “Hello, this is Officer Garrison from the police department. It is my duty to inform you that a warrant has been issued for your arrest as a result of your failure to show up for jury duty. Please call us immediately to avoid incarceration.”

The goal: To persuade you to pay a large “fine” to the crooks posing as police.

Use good sense: The legal system doesn’t work this way. You would get a notice of jury duty in the mail. Police and court officials don’t solicit payments by phone. If you are concerned, contact your county clerk’s office about jury duty.

The SSA warns you to beware of phone calls from phony SSA employees

Social Security Scam