The Connecticut Better Business Bureau is alerting consumers about con artists selling phony health insurance policies.
The Connecticut BBB says it has not received any complaints about these kinds of scheme. But the organization says there has been a proliferation of fake health insurance operations since President Obama signed health care reform into law in March.
Expanded coverage won’t even be available for another four years, and it will likely not be sold door-to-door.
This consumer alert echoes a warning from U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, who is seeking to protect consumers from health insurance fraud.
Federal investigators are looking into reports that scammers are visiting homes claiming there is an open enrollment period to buy health insurance.
Medicare administrators and other related federal officials have been put on alert, and Sebelius says authorities are relying on state law enforcement officials across the country to crack down on attempts defraud consumers.
Better Business Bureau has some tips for consumers when a door-to-door salesperson shows up:
*Fraudulent sales often rely on high pressure tactics. Â Don’t be bullied, coerced or hurried into making a decision.
*Always ask for identification – preferably a photo ID – before listening to a sales pitch.
*When you do buy goods or services from a door-to-door salesperson, get all details in writing, including price, warranty, all conditions, exclusions and cancellation fees. Â Tell the seller you will get back to him or her once you have done your research
*Never let an unknown door-to-door salesperson into your home or business.
