CMS is warning healthcare providers about a new Medicare fraud scheme involving phishing fax requests. Scammers are impersonating CMS and sending fake fax messages that request medical records under the guise of a Medicare audit.

Here’s the key message: CMS does NOT request medical records via fax to initiate an audit.

🚫 If You Receive a Suspicious Fax:

• Do not respond.

• Do not send any records.

• Immediately report the request to your Medical Review Contractor to verify authenticity.

At Billed Right, we know how easily operational disruptions like this can affect your practice. That’s why we’re helping spread this message to keep your team, your patients, and your revenue cycle protected.

CMS Is Actively Fighting Fraud, Waste & Abuse

CMS is taking aggressive action to:

• Stop payments to criminal actors

• Remove fraudulent providers

• Prevent abuse in Medicare, Medicaid, and Marketplace programs

• Leverage data and tech to stay ahead of scams

Recent efforts have prevented millions in improper payments—including one case where a provider billed for a deceased patient, and another involving up to $20 billion in Marketplace fraud.

What You Can Do

The most powerful tool in fighting healthcare fraud is you. Be vigilant:

• Scrutinize unusual billing or record requests

• Educate your staff about phishing risks

• Report anything suspicious

Report Fraud:

• Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)

• Marketplace: 1-800-318-2596

• Medicaid & Other: 1-800-HHS-TIPS or Submit a Tip Online

If you’re a Billed Right client and ever unsure about a request, your account manager is here to help, feel free to reach out anytime.