Scam Alert: Targeting Social Workers

NASW-NC has had some reports of a scam targeting social workers and counselors from across North Carolina.

The scam involves calling or emailing the social worker to book services while they are temporarily in the state. The trick begins when you agree to book time for these potential clients. The scammer usually asks to send a check to prepay for your services. Then, shortly after you receive the check, the scammer sends you another message; for one reason or another, they want a partial refund.

Here is an article by TherapyNotes with examples of this type of scam:

https://blog.therapynotes.com/watch-out-for-this-scam-targeting-therapists-and-counselors

If you think you or someone you know has been the victim of one of these fraudulent calls or emails, hang up and don’t respond. You should report the incident to your local police  so they are aware of the fraudulent activity and report it to the North Carolina Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.

Other scams targeting behavioral health clinicians over the years:

Beware: Scam Targeting Social Workers who have presence on marketing sites

Professional Licensing Scams