Protect your benefits by reporting scams and fraud

A few bad actors are seeking to take advantage of Veterans and VA during this challenging time through fraud schemes, scams and other illegal or unethical activities, including fraud, waste, and abuse.

“If something seems too good to be true, it probably is,” said Tracy Davis Bradley, VHA’s acting Chief Integrity and Compliance Officer. “Veterans who see something that doesn’t feel right should report it.”

Veterans should be aware of common scams that seek to gain access to the medical and financial benefits they earned through military service, including:

• Identity Theft
• Phishing
• Imposter Scams
• Coronavirus Scams
• Investment Opportunities
• Loan Deceptions
• Benefits Schemes

VA does not make unsolicited calls asking for Veterans’ private secure information, such as a Social Security Number, and VA never asks for payment to confirm an appointment.

Ways to protect yourself

• Protect yourself. Do not give out your personal information or respond to emails or text messages about COVID-19 from unknown individuals.
• Stay Informed. Check your local VA medical center web page or VA’s COVID-19 page for vaccine testing and distribution information.
• Check your medical bills regularly. Keep a record of all medical expenses and report any errors or suspicious claims immediately to VA or your Third-Party Administrator.

Ultimately, scams targeting Veterans impact the entire Veteran community and VA’s ability to provide quality care and benefit delivery. VA takes reports of fraud and scams very seriously and investigates these reports to protect all Veterans. By speaking up, Veterans can protect themselves and their comrades in arms.

Reporting fraud, waste, and abuse

All suspected criminal activity should be reported to the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG):

• Email the VA OIG Hotline: vaoighotline@va.gov
• Fax the VA OIG: (202) 565-7936
• Call the VA OIG: (800) 488-8244

Veterans who suspect they’ve been the target of fraud can call the Office of Integrity and Compliance Help Line 24/7 at (866) 842-4357 (VHA-HELP) or email vhacbihelpline@va.gov for assistance and guidance.

Tracy Davis Bradley is acting chief integrity and compliance officer, VHA Office of Integrity and Compliance.