Consumers in R.I. Warned of Healthcare Ruling Scam

Rhode Island’s attorney general is warning consumers about possible identity theft and Medicare fraud by scammers apparently trying to take advantage of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling upholding the health care overhaul.

Attorney General Peter Kilmartin says individuals have received phone calls from people claiming to be from the federal government who say they need to “verify information” under the Affordable Care Act, including Social Security and Medicare identification numbers.

His office says the Federal Trade Commission has received complaints from around the country.

He says consumers should not give out their personal information in unsolicited phone calls, emails or home visits.

Consumers may file a complaint with the FTC or the consumer protection unit of Kilmartin’s office.