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  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 2, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Peddling Fake Health Plans 

    Scammers Peddling Fake Health Plans

    By Greg Collier

    The FBI is warning the public about a widespread scam involving fraudulent discount medical insurance plans. These deceptive schemes are targeting people who are searching for affordable healthcare coverage. Many victims have lost money and received no actual insurance benefits in return.

    These scams typically begin with an unsolicited phone call, email, or text message. The person on the other end poses as a representative from a legitimate insurance provider and offers what sounds like an unbeatable deal. They may promise full medical or dental coverage, the ability to see your current doctor, or even additional perks like help with groceries and gas. The catch is that you have to act quickly. The supposed discount is only available for a short time, creating pressure to make an immediate decision.

    Once people agree and submit their payment, the promised insurance never materializes. Some only discover the truth after trying to use the policy for a medical visit, only to be told they are not insured and must pay out of pocket. Others are misled about refunds or cancellation terms and find themselves unable to stop recurring charges.

    The FBI reports that these scams are not isolated incidents. A recent case in Washington state resulted in a cease-and-desist order against a company operating under several names. The business received more than 100 complaints for misrepresenting coverage, charging unauthorized fees, and denying refunds.

    These operations often use language that resembles official communications, which makes the pitch seem legitimate. Victims are rushed through the process and discouraged from reading the fine print. By the time the deception is uncovered, the damage is already done.

    Consumers are strongly urged to avoid any health insurance or benefit offer that arrives through an unsolicited phone call or message. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Take the time to verify companies through official channels and never give out payment or personal information under pressure.

    These scams are evolving quickly and spreading across the country. The cost of falling for them can be both financial and personal. With millions already lost, awareness remains the best defense.

     
  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 1, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fake Casino Sites Target Missouri 

    Fake Casino Sites Target Missouri

    By Greg Collier

    A new warning from the Missouri Gaming Commission sheds light on a growing scam that could just as easily spread beyond state borders. The scheme involves fraudulent websites posing as legitimate online extensions of real-world casinos in Missouri. These deceptive platforms are being promoted on social media and often feature imagery from actual casinos to reinforce their appearance of legitimacy.

    There is currently no legal online casino gambling in Missouri. Any advertisement claiming that such services are now available to Missouri residents is entirely false. The risk with these illegal websites is significant. Because they operate outside the jurisdiction of regulatory agencies, there is no recourse for players who do not receive promised winnings. What appears to be a payout opportunity may, in fact, be a dead end with no consumer protections.

    With online sports wagering expected to launch in Missouri later this year, the public’s anticipation has created a ripe environment for opportunistic scams. Residents who are eager to participate in legal gambling may be more vulnerable to false advertising, especially when it closely resembles legitimate casino branding.

    This scam is not unique to Missouri. Similar schemes have been reported in other parts of the country, making this a broader issue that could impact residents nationwide. As states move to expand or legalize online gambling, scammers are likely to exploit confusion and excitement surrounding new gambling laws and platforms.

    Authorities advise that anyone who encounters a suspicious betting site should report it to their state’s gaming authority, local law enforcement and the Internet Crime Complaint Center. Until online casino gambling is legalized and properly regulated in Missouri or any other state, it is crucial for residents to remain skeptical of unsolicited betting opportunities online.

    For anyone struggling with a gambling problem, help is available. The National Problem Gambling Helpline can be reached at 1-800-GAMBLER.

     
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