Scam Prevention Resources
Keeping You Safe from Scams
Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to try to access people’s personal information. Staying alert is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from harm.
Recently, scammers have been impersonating MyChart, the online patient portal used by hospitals and health providers, including St. Luke’s University Health Network and Lehigh Valley Health Network. These fraudulent messages may appear as emails or texts offering a fake reward called a “MyChart Medicare Kit,” which does not exist. Their goal is to steal passwords or other sensitive information.
Here’s how you can stay vigilant:
Common Red Flags of Scams
- Pressure to act immediately: Claims that your account will be closed, a warrant has been issued, or a loved one is in danger to push you into quick decisions.
- Unusual payment methods: Requests for payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or payment apps.
- Requests for sensitive information: Asking for passwords, PINs, Social Security numbers, or bank details through phone, text, or email.
- Unsolicited contact: Unexpected calls, emails, or messages from unfamiliar or suspicious sources.
- “Too good to be true” offers: Promises of large sums of money, prizes, or high-return investments with little to no effort.
- Suspicious links or attachments: Messages directing you to fake login pages or containing malware-laden files.
- Demand for secrecy: Instructions not to speak with your bank, family members, or law enforcement about the interaction.
Source: PA.gov