United Healthcare Scam Calls - How to Protect Yourself

Common Variations of the Scam

• The "New 2026 U Card" Trick: Scammers call claiming they need to verify your information to issue your new medical card or 2026 insurance benefits.
• The Urgent Account Issue: An automated or live representative claims there is a "mistake" or "urgent issue" with your account, policy, or claims that must be resolved immediately over the phone.
• Free Medical Equipment or Medication: Callers offer free braces, test kits, or low-cost prescriptions in exchange for your member ID number or credit card.
• Employment Scams: Scammers conduct fake job interviews via text or phone pretending to be from UnitedHealth Group and request bank routing info for "direct deposit setup" or payment for training software.

How to Spot the Scam

• Asking for Out-of-Blue Verification: Legitimate UnitedHealthcare agents will already know your core policy details and will never cold-call you out of the blue to ask for your Social Security number or financial information.
• Providing a Specific "Callback" Number: If the caller instructs you to dial a random 1-800 number instead of the one on your insurance card, it is a scam.
• Aggressive or Threatening Language: Scammers often claim you will lose your health coverage or face a government fine if you do not comply immediately.

How to Protect Yourself

• Hang Up and Call Directly: If you suspect a call is fake, do not engage. Hang up immediately and dial the trusted phone number listed directly on the back of your UnitedHealthcare UCard or member ID card.
• Do Not Rely on Caller ID: Scammers can easily falsify names and local area codes.
• Never Give Out Temporary Codes: If a caller asks you to read back a verification code text message to "prove your identity," hang up. They are trying to hack your account.

Where to Report the Scam

If you encounter a suspicious call, you can report it directly using the following verified official contact methods:

• UnitedHealthcare Members: Call the dedicated UHC Fraud Hotline at 1-844-359-7736 or report online via the UnitedHealthcare Fraud & Abuse Center.
• Medicare Advantage Members: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
• General Scams: File a complaint with the government via the Federal Trade Commission Report Fraud Portal.