Each year, millions of Americans sign up for health coverage during Open Enrollment, and scammers take full advantage of this opportunity. Fake emails, phone calls, and text messages are flooding inboxes, all designed to steal your personal and financial information.
If you fall victim, the consequences can go far beyond losing money. Stolen data is often used to open fraudulent accounts, damaging your credit and costing you jobs, housing, or loans.
At Francis Mailman Soumilas, P.C., we help consumers nationwide take back control when companies and credit bureaus fail to protect or correct your information.
What Is Open Enrollment and Why Do Scammers Target It?
Open Enrollment is the time of year when individuals can sign up for or change their health insurance plans. Because it involves sharing sensitive personal details like your Social Security number, birth date, and bank information, it’s a prime target for identity thieves.
Phishing scams surge during this period because scammers know consumers are expecting emails or calls about insurance options. Fraudsters mimic legitimate organizations, hoping you’ll let your guard down.
Common Open Enrollment Scams to Watch Out For
Here are the most frequent scams reported during the Open Enrollment period:
1. Fake Healthcare.gov or Insurance Websites
Scammers create websites that look nearly identical to official sites. The goal? To get you to enter personal details, payment info, or even upload your driver’s license.
Tip: Always start your enrollment process by typing Healthcare.gov directly into your browser; never click links from unsolicited emails or ads.
2. Phishing Calls and Text Messages
Messages may say things like:
“Your health coverage is expiring. Click here to renew”
“We can help you lower your premiums, but you must act today.”
Suppose you share personal information or click a malicious link. In that case, scammers can steal your data or infect your device with malware.
3. “Limited-Time Offers” or High-Pressure Tactics
Legitimate insurance agents don’t rush you to make immediate payments or ask for banking information over the phone. If someone pressures you to act fast, hang up.
How Phishing Scams Can Lead to Credit Report Errors
Once scammers steal your data, they often use it to open fraudulent credit cards, loans, or even medical accounts in your name. Those accounts then appear on your credit reports, lowering your score and damaging your reputation.
You might discover the problem only when:
- You’re denied a mortgage or car loan
- An employer rescinds a job offer after a background check
- You start receiving collection notices for debts that aren’t yours
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), credit reporting agencies must correct inaccurate or fraudulent information. When they fail to do so, you have the right to take legal action.
What To Do If You Shared Personal Information
If you think you may have fallen for an Open Enrollment scam, act fast:
- Change your passwords immediately for any affected accounts.
- Report the scam to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov.
- Check your credit reports for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries.
- Keep documentation of all communications and dispute attempts.
When to Contact a Consumer Protection Attorney
If your credit report shows fraudulent information, or if a credit bureau refuses to correct identity theft-related errors, you may have a legal claim.
At Francis Mailman Soumilas, P.C., we represent consumers when:
- Credit bureaus fail to remove inaccurate or fraudulent accounts
- Identity theft leads to job or housing denials
- Background check companies report false or outdated data
We don’t get paid unless we win your case.
Protect Yourself This Open Enrollment Season
Staying informed is your best defense. Remember:
- Only use official government or employer portals to enroll
- Never click on links or attachments from unknown senders
- Monitor your credit reports regularly
- If errors appear, take action immediately
If a background check or credit report error has cost you money, opportunities, or peace of mind, our attorneys are here to help. Suppose false or fraudulent information appears on your credit report after an identity theft or phishing scam. In that case, you have rights under the FCRA.
Get a Free Case Review
We’ve helped thousands of consumers across the U.S. get justice, and we’re ready to help you, too.
Health Insurance Phishing Scams FAQ
What should I do if I get a suspicious email about health insurance?
Don’t click any links or download attachments. Go directly to Healthcare.gov or your insurer’s verified website to check your account.
Can a phishing scam affect my credit report?
Yes. If scammers open accounts or loans using your stolen information, those fraudulent accounts can appear on your credit reports and harm your credit score.
Can I sue if a credit bureau doesn’t fix identity theft errors?
Yes. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you have the right to dispute inaccuracies. If a credit bureau ignores or fails to correct verified errors, you may be entitled to compensation.
How can a lawyer help after an identity theft scam?
A consumer protection attorney can help you hold credit bureaus and background check companies accountable, recover damages, and clear your name.