The Comprehensive Medical Care Program (PAMI) issued an alert about the increase in digital scams targeting elderly affiliates of the social security system. Criminals impersonate PAMI agents through WhatsApp, social media, and phone calls to obtain personal and banking information from retirees.
According to the agency, scammers send messages that appear to be official communications, asking affiliates to update their information, complete forms to receive a new credential, or activate discounts on medications and additional benefits. These messages often contain links that redirect to fraudulent websites where retirees are tricked into entering their personal and banking information, allowing criminals to access affiliates' accounts and steal their savings through transfers.
In case of suspected fraud, it is recommended to immediately discontinue communication and file the appropriate complaint. PAMI advises contacting through official channels identified with a verification tick, such as calling 138. It is important to remember that PAMI has no intermediaries and does not request personal information, such as document numbers, bank accounts, or passwords.
In response to this situation, PAMI has launched the campaign "Cut Out the Scam" to inform beneficiaries about these frauds and emphasizes the importance of not providing sensitive information to strangers. The agency highlights that it will never communicate with affiliates to request personal or banking data and encourages the elderly to avoid opening links sent by unidentified or suspicious individuals. In case of doubt, it is advised to consult directly with PAMI through its official channels.
