Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday is warning healthcare patients of a phishing scam targeting Pennsylvanians who use the MyChart online patient portal.
Scammers are impersonating the health care platform by sending emails and text messages offering a “MyChart Medicare Kit” reward. State officials confirmed no such program or reward exists.
All local healthcare networks in Schuylkill County – Geisinger, LVHN, and St. Luke’s – use the MyChart portal for patient communications.
The fraudulent messages attempt to trick recipients into clicking malicious links. Hackers use these links to steal passwords and personal information, allowing them to gain access to private patient portals.
“Scammers are always looking for new ways to obtain as much of your personal information as possible,” Sunday said. “Stay on the lookout for this new scam tactic, and contact your medical office if you’re not sure how to access the MyChart website assigned to your providers.”
Consumers should remain skeptical of unsolicited free offers and to interact with health care providers strictly through official MyChart websites or apps. Official guidance warns users not to reply to suspicious messages, open attachments, or click links, including “Unsubscribe” options, which may also contain malicious code.
Further, patients should never provide passwords or verification codes by phone, text, or email, nor follow instructions to log onto a computer to “verify,” “fix,” or “unlock” an account.
Consumers who have questions or believe they fell victim to the scam can file a complaint with the Bureau of Consumer Protection by visiting its website, emailing scams@attorneygeneral.gov, or calling 1-800-441-2555.
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