Univera Healthcare officials are trying to help area residents avoid being a victim of health care fraud during the COVID-19 crisis.

“Check the Monthly Health Statement you receive from your health insurer for unexplained or unauthorized charges,” said Richard Vienne, D.O., Univera Healthcare vice president and chief medical officer.

Ignore any offer for vaccinations to treat the coronavirus. Currently, there are no FDA-approved treatments or cures.

Be aware that scammers may contact people by phone and email and pretend to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and that are demanding payment for that treatment.

Be wary of phone calls from people who claim to be from a health insurer. Those unsure of a call they have received should call their health insurer at the number on their Member ID card.

Hang up on robocalls. Don’t respond to any questions or press any numbers.

Be aware of spear-phishing emails referencing coronavirus or COVID-19, which may contain malware. Do not open any documents or click on any links unless it can be verified that they are safe.

“Be wary of scammers going door to door offering free test kits in exchange for insurance information or cash,” said Vienne. “Do not open the door for anyone you do not know.”

Keep an eye out for websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks.

Be aware that scammers are creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 in order to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.