Cyberpolice alert on medical identity theft, what is it and why should we be careful?

Mexico City Cyber ​​Police has shared a new modality of information theft based on personal medical data, which could benefit cybercriminals. Acquiring health products and services that harm victims’ records.

According to some images broadcast by the social network “X” formerly “Twitter”, medical identity theft occurs when a third party suffers the theft of your personal information, such as:

• Full Name.
• Social Security number.
• Health insurance account number.

With just these three pieces of information, the cybercriminal can demand to see the doctor treating you, order prescription drugs, buy medical devices, file a claim with your health insurance or even open another line of health care.

How do I know if I have been the victim of medical identity theft?

The security unit has issued a specific list to find out if we have been victims of a hacker who wanted to take advantage of the health insurance taken out, and invited the population to be attentive to the following signs:

• Invoices for medical services not received.
• Incorrect information in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Policy tabulator at maximum without having modified it.
• Calls regarding unexpected debts.
• Notice of unknown charges on credit report.
• Notice of denial of insurance for a condition that was never specified in the contract.

Tips to Prevent Medical Identity Theft

In the event that we have not experienced medical information theft but wish to avoid this situation, the Cyber ​​Police of the Mexico City shared the following list of tips:

• View a summary of medical expenses from a previous year.
• Correct any errors in the medical record.
• Protect social security number and health insurance information.
• Ask for a replacement number in case the card is lost.
• Shred medical documents before discarding them.
• Stay current with medical records.
• Do not provide personal information over the phone or in messages.

If you have been the victim of medical identity theft:

• Contact the insurer.
• Request copies of records.
• Report it to the authorities.
• Carry out a simultaneous approach with the insurer.

Author: Adriana Juarez
Source: El Heraldo De Mexico