Scammers Now Trying To Get Access To Your MyChart

There's a saying that seems like we keep getting reminded every few weeks that goes something like: scammers are going to scam. It seems that no matter how hard we work to keep our hard-earned money, assets, and information, there's another group of people who are working just as hard to steal these things from us.

Just when you thought that getting access to your computer, credit cards, and other important financial information wasn't enough for the scammers, it seems that now they are trying to target something that may even be more important to us than money: our health data.

According to a news and information release from the American Hospital Association, people all over the United States, including those right here in the Empire State, need to be on the alert for scammers trying to get access to your MyChart files.

Watch Your MyChart Because Scammers Want Access To It

MyChart is a secure online portal that gives you direct access to your medical records, lab results, and allows you to communicate directly with staff at your Doctor's or Hospital office. Because your Personally Identifiable Information, or PII, is so valuable on the black market for scammers, they are doing whatever they can to get access to your private data, including your health data.

The way it works is through a typical phishing scheme, which, according to the Federal Trade Commission, uses a fake email to trick you into giving them your username and password. Once they have that information, the scammers are able to use it to break into your account and get at your data.

There are some simple tips that you can follow to make sure you keep all of your data safe, not just your health data. Things like double-checking the email address or website you click on, calling your doctor's office directly if you feel uneasy, and remembering that the proper organization will never ask for your username and password will make sure you're safe online.

And when in doubt, just stop and reach out to your medical provider directly.

There's no shortage of people looking to cheat and steal to make thier way in the world, so making sure you're diligent in keeping yourself safe and educated is key.