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Officials warn New Yorkers of growing fake health insurance scam

New York officials issued a warning this week about a growing scam targeting residents seeking affordable health insurance. According to New York Attorney General Letitia James and State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, scammers have been impersonating government health agencies and selling fake insurance plans.

Officials said the schemes often involved emails, text messages, or phone numbers designed to look like they came from the New York State Department of Health. In many cases, scammers used threatening language, pressured people to respond immediately, or tried to lure victims with offers of money, gift cards, or incentives to “update coverage.”

Authorities urged residents to stay cautious and report any suspicious contact. Anyone who believes they may have encountered a scam or has already shared personal information is encouraged to file a complaint online or call the Attorney General’s consumer hotline at 1-800-771-7755.

Adam Crooks is a graduate student from Kennesaw State studying broadcasting and digital journalism at Newhouse, expected to graduate in May 2026. As a content producer at WAER, Adam helps create digital and radio stories.