WARNING: This Idaho Phone Scam Seems Legit—But It’s Not

Scammers Are Posing as Legit Insurance Companies in Idaho—Here’s How They're Doing It

Social media has been buzzing in Idaho about another wave of scam calls. This time, scammers are targeting health insurance customers. The latest round involves scammers pretending to represent reputable companies like Blue Shield or Cigna, and they’re getting better at it.

These scammers are using spoofing tech to make it appear that they’re calling from a legitimate company. In many cases, the caller ID matches the actual 800-number of the insurer, making it even harder to spot the fake. 

How the Scam Works

Once you answer, they’ll begin routine questions about your health coverage and benefits. The goal is to get you comfortable enough to share personal information, like your Medicare number, Social Security number, or date of birth.

Even if the call appears to come from a trusted source, do not let your guard down. Once they get your information, scammers will have potential access to your lending. 

READ MORE: USPS Scam Alert In Idaho. Here's What You Need To Know

How to Avoid Falling for It 

Here are some tips to avoid getting scammed:

• Don’t trust caller ID. Spoofing tools can make a scammer’s number look like it’s coming from a legit insurer.
• Never give out personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call to a verified number.
• If someone claims to be from your insurance provider, hang up and call the official customer service number listed on your insurance card or the company’s website.
• Be suspicious of pressure tactics. Scammers often try to create urgency or scare you into acting fast.
• Report suspicious calls to your insurance provider, the FTC, or the Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
• Listen out for this simple 4-letter phrase that savvy scammers use to trick you. It’s a little trick, but it’s working. 

What Insurance Companies Are Saying

Blue Shield published a warning about these types of scams and offered this reminder:

"Blue Shield will never call to ask for personal, financial, or Medicare information unless you’ve contacted us first. If you receive an unsolicited call, hang up and call the number on the back of your Blue Shield ID card."

If you receive a suspicious call, trust your gut. It’s always better to verify, even if the number looks real.