Scam targets medical offices and clinics

The Washington Medical Commission (WMC) has been alerted that scam artists are calling clinics and offices posing as the Medical Board, saying there is a problem with a physician’s DEA (drug enforcement administration) registration. They spoof the WMC phone number.

This appears to be part of a larger extortion scheme related to scammers posing as government officials. Yesterday the Medical Board of California reported a similar scheme where scammers posing as DEA agents demanded payment in order to keep a licensee from being suspended. 

This is not how state medical boards or the DEA operate and all practitioners should be skeptical of anyone claiming to be with the WMC making such demands.

Be aware the Washington Medical Commission will never call you asking for your DEA number, private information or looking for payment. If you receive a call like this and have questions, contact the Medical Commission.