The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is once again warning about phone scammers contacting licensed dental professionals, while impersonating staff at the Department of Health and Human Services. The scammers, who often use Caller ID spoofing to make it appear as if the call is coming from a legitimate government agency, falsely threaten that they are investigating their professional license in order to extract personal information. 

DCCA received reports last week that were similar to those received in November regarding this scam that primarily targets dental professionals, but also has targeted other medical professionals, including nurses and pharmacists.  

DHHS does not have the authority to suspend or revoke professional licenses, according to a news release. Instead, the 52 licensing boards, commissions and programs that are affiliated with the DCCA can discipline the licensee after an investigation. However, the boards, commissions and programs do not conduct the investigations. The Regulated Industries Complaint Office, which is part of the DCCA, conducts independent investigations into licensees. RICO sends all correspondence on official letterhead and does not ask for personal information over the phone, solicit wire transfers, or take action against a licensee. 

DCCA encourages the public to remain vigilant when receiving calls from state officials or government agencies and said they will never solicit money or threaten arrest. The state agency recommends hanging up immediately if a call seems suspicious. To verify the caller's legitimacy, contact the agency directly. (Here is a list of legitimate phone numbers.)

Anyone who has received a call similar to what is being described should call their licensing board/program. A list of programs and contact information is available here.