Experts warn of rise in scam phone calls due to government shutdown

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Philadelphia region is seeing an 80% increase in unwanted calls and within those, a 50% increase in fraudulent calls since the government shutdown began.

Before you pick up your next call or respond to a text message, we have information you need to know.

The top two scams right now involve SNAP benefits and open enrollment for Affordable Care Act plans and Medicare.

Criminals are making bogus offers, claiming to ease high premiums and provide emergency money for food.

Scam blocking service Nomorobo shared, captured and sent the Action News Troubleshooters examples of scam calls to be on the lookout for.

The first one says: "I'm calling because you've just become eligible for free extra benefits such as groceries, gas, prescriptions, and a monthly stipend. Let me help you get those added to your Medicare Advantage plan at no cost, okay?"

Another operator says: "I am offering a free review to help you explore better plan options."

And these calls have also been identified as scams offering to help SNAP recipients: "Most SNAP households will only receive about half of their November benefits, and some will get nothing at all. We've secured replacement funds for you, but the window closes in 24 hours."

As well as this one: "Press 1 now to confirm your eligibility and receive a secure link. Your file closes in 24 hours. After that, the funds are gone, permanently reassigned. If you want the funds, hit 1 right now on your phone. You'll get a secure link direct to your phone. That's it. Tap 1, click the link, lock it in and you're funded."

Experts say the urgency is a red flag. Do NOT press 1, in fact, don't press anything.

These scammers are trying to get your money and/or your personal information.

Sometimes they do sign people up for plans, but they skip off the top and consumers end up paying twice as much as they should be.

And Matt Mizenko with Nomorobo offers three more tips.

"Never give out personal information. That's the biggest one. Number two, anything that seems weird, hang up. And then number three, spread the word," he said.

Share about your experience on social media and report the call and the number by going to DoNotCall.gov.