DCBS Media Release

June 15, 1998
For more information:
John Piper, (503) 947-7213

CONSUMER ALERT: Insurance agents, companies must be licensed

The Oregon Insurance Division reminds consumers that agents and companies must be licensed to sell insurance in the state.

Investigations and Enforcement Manager Michele Lowe said the division recently received a report from a woman who had been contacted by phone by an agent representing Health Core Medical Solutions. He offered health insurance for $6 per month that had to be paid one year in advance. He then asked for her credit card and Social Security numbers. The woman refused to give the information over the phone.

Lowe said the Insurance Division has not licensed the agent or Health Core Medical Solutions to sell insurance in the state.

"Consumers should always verify who they are talking with before giving out credit card numbers, Social Security numbers or other personal information over the telephone," Lowe said.

Consumers can check with the Insurance Division to see if an agent or company is licensed to do business in Oregon. To find out if an agent is licensed, call (503) 947-7981 or visit the division's Internet site at:
www.cbs.state.or.us/external/ins or www.oregoninsurance.org

To see if an insurance company is authorized to do business in the state, call (503) 947-7982.