New scam targets veterans
By Staff Report
TOMS RIVER – Veterans are being warned not to give out credit card information over the telephone to anyone who claims they are representing the Veterans Administration.
“The VA does not ask veterans to disclose personal financial information over the telephone,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau. “There is a scam taking place that is targeting veterans and it’s important our veterans be made aware of it.”
Little said that the national Veterans of Foreign Wars organization notified Ocean County of a scam regarding the VA’s prescription medicine program. About 10,000 Ocean County residents use the VA health care system.
“The VA has received reports that veterans are being contacted by an agency calling itself the ‘Patient Care Group’ and claiming it is helping to administer the VA’s prescription medicine program,” Little said.
According to the VFW ‘Patient Care Group’ is stating the VA recently changed its pharmacy billing procedures and a personal credit card number is now required for prescription payments in advance of filling those prescriptions.
Little said the VA however has not made changes to its pharmacy procedures and these calls are part of a scam.
“In Ocean County there are several agencies that keep a close eye on potential scams that could prove to be a costly problem for our residents, whether they are veterans, or our seniors,” said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs and the Office of Senior Services.
Vicari recommends anyone receiving these kinds of telephone calls should contact their local police department, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, or the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-929-2105.
“If you should receive such a call do not give them any information,” Little said. “Authorities do recommend you try and obtain a name and call back number.
“Scam artists will try just about anything to get your information,” Little said.
Little also recommended veterans call the Veterans Service Bureau at 732-929-2096 for assistance.
“The bureau is here to help all of the veterans living in Ocean County,” Little said. “We urge our veterans to call should they have a concern or question.”
Posted by Staff Report
on Sep 17 2009. Filed under Opinions.
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