Scam Alert: Fraudulent SMS Messages Impersonating HotDoc
Epichealth would like to alert patients to a scam currently circulating via SMS messages that falsely claim to be from HotDoc.
These fraudulent messages are designed to create a sense of urgency and may ask recipients to click a link or provide personal and banking information. HotDoc has confirmed that these messages are not legitimate and should not be trusted.
Importantly, HotDoc has advised that there has been no data breach associated with these scam messages. The scammers are using publicly available contact details and other methods to target individuals while impersonating trusted organisations.
What Should You Do If You Receive One of These Messages?
If you receive a message claiming to be from HotDoc and asking you to take urgent action:
- Do not click any links.
- Do not reply to the message.
- Do not provide any personal or banking information.
- Delete the message immediately.
- Report it as spam through your mobile device.
How to Identify Genuine HotDoc Communications
HotDoc has advised that legitimate communications will generally include at least three identifying details, such as:
- Your name
- The name of your clinic or doctor
- Appointment or booking information
Patients should also be aware that:
- Official HotDoc website links only direct to hotdoc.com, hotdoc.com.au, or hotdoc.io.
- Official HotDoc emails come from @hotdocmail.com.au, @hotdoc.com, @hotdoc.com.au, or @hotdoc.io.
- HotDoc does not make unsolicited phone calls to patients. They will only contact patients by phone if the patient has first contacted HotDoc Support.
Stay Vigilant
Scammers frequently impersonate medical clinics, healthcare providers, banks, government agencies, and other trusted organisations through text messages, emails, and phone calls.
If you are ever unsure whether a message relating to your appointment is genuine, we encourage you to contact your clinic directly before taking any action.
The safety and privacy of our patients are extremely important to us, and we will continue to share updates whenever we become aware of potential scams affecting our community.