A sophisticated phone scam is actively targeting physicians and APPs in our region.

Scammers are impersonating representatives from the Arizona Medical Board (AMB) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). They may use caller ID spoofing to display official agency phone numbers and cite accurate information, such as your National Provider Identifier (NPI) or medical license number, to appear legitimate.

How the scam works

Scammers may:

• Claim that controlled substances or fraudulent activity have been linked to your medical license or NPI.
• Demand payment, sensitive personal information or financial details.
• Ask you to download third-party messaging apps, sign fake nondisclosure agreements or avoid discussing the call with colleagues.
• Threaten license suspension or other consequences to create urgency.

Important reminders

The AMB and DEA will never request money, payment or sensitive personal information over the phone. Official investigations or regulatory actions are communicated through formal processes, not immediate demands during a phone call.

If you receive a suspicious call

• Hang up immediately. Do not provide information or follow instructions.
• Verify independently. Contact the agency using a published phone number.
• Report the incident:
  • FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov
  • Arizona Medical Board: 480-551-2700 or communications@azmd.gov
• Notify HonorHealth Risk Management and your practice manager for internal tracking.

Thank you for your vigilance as we work to protect our Medical Staff and practice operations.