DPH Alerts Public About Telephone Scam

HARTFORD — The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) has advised the public about an apparent telephone scam involving callers claiming to represent the state health department and asking individuals for personal and financial information.

DPH has received questions from several alert individuals inquiring as to the legitimacy of such a program. Many contacting DPH say that have been called by someone claiming that they are “from the state health department,” and explaining that the caller had won gifts such as a $1,000 shopping card, certificate, or a voucher good toward defraying the cost of medical expenses. In order to receive the “prize,” however, those receiving the call would need to provide personal information, such as banking account or social security numbers.

“I can assure you that the Connecticut Department of Public Health is not calling individuals with any offers of financial incentives or health care vouchers,” stated DPH Commissioner J. Robert Galvin, MD, MPH. “The public should neither fall for this apparent scam, nor should they release personal information — especially banking information — over the telephone,” he said.

The public is advised that if they receive these calls, do not give out any personal identifying information such as banking account, social security, credit card, or other identifiable information. They can also file a complaint in writing with the Department of Consumer Protection. Complaint forms can be obtained by calling 860-713-6050 or via the department’s website, www.ct.gov/dcp.

The Department of Public Health is referring information it receives about these calls to the Department of Consumer Protection and to the Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Unit.