The following article has been written and submitted by Sheila Olson – fitsheila.com
As technology becomes more advanced, there are new risks that come along with it. One such risk is personal information theft, including medical records. Medical identity theft is becoming more common by the day, and it’s something everyone should be aware of. Below, True Medicine discusses the ins and outs of identity theft, how to prevent it, and more. Let’s get you on track to protecting your medical information!
What Is Identity Theft?
Identity theft refers to when someone’s personal information (e.g., medical records, Social Security number, credit card information, etc.) is stolen and used for fraudulent purposes. Medical identity theft happens when someone gains access to your medical records and uses the information to receive medical care, prescription drugs, or even surgeries.
How Can Scammers Make Money From Your Medical Records?
There are countless ways scammers can use your medical records for their own financial benefit. One of the most common ways is to use your information to file false insurance claims or sell it on the black market. Scammers can also use your information to commit other types of fraud, such as taking out loans or opening credit cards in your name.
What Is Scareware?
Scareware is a type of malware that tricks people into thinking their computer has a virus or another problem. The scareware then tries to sell the person a software program to fix the alleged problem, but the malicious program then steals the person’s information.
Scareware is a common way scammers gain access to medical records. Here are some practical tips to protect yourself:
- Stay vigilant online. Be cautious of clicking on pop-ups or suspicious links. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is!
- Use reliable antivirus software. Install and regularly update trusted antivirus software to identify and remove scareware and other malware threats.
- Keep your operating system up to date. Stay current on the latest security patches to protect your OS against known vulnerabilities.
- Be wary of unsolicited emails. Don’t click on links or download attachments in unsolicited emails, even if they appear to be from a reputable source.
- Back up your data. Regularly back up important files and documents to an external hard drive or cloud storage service so you can restore them in case of a malware attack or device failure.
- Educate yourself. Stay informed about the latest types of scareware and other cyber threats; that way, you can easily recognize and avoid them.
- Use common sense. Be cautious when browsing the web or downloading files. Err on the side of caution and don’t take any risks if something seems suspicious.
How Do You Know Your Identity Has Been Stolen?
There are several signs that your identity may have been stolen. For example, you might get bills for medical services you didn’t receive, or you may be denied insurance coverage because your medical records show conditions you don’t have. Your credit score may also suddenly drop, or you might receive calls from collection agencies for debts you don’t recognize.
What Should You Do if Your Identity Is Stolen?
If you suspect your medical identity has been stolen, it’s essential to take action immediately. Contact your healthcare provider and explain the situation. Request that they place a flag on your records to prevent further fraud. Also, report the theft to law enforcement, and monitor your credit report and accounts carefully to ensure no further fraudulent activity occurs.
Summary
Medical identity theft is a serious issue that can bring about long-term consequences. Take proper precautions so you can protect your medical information and keep yourself financially healthy. Being cautious when giving out personal information, updating your software, and following the other tips above will get you off to a strong start. Just remember to stay vigilant and take action immediately if you suspect identity theft, and always be mindful of this threat.
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