PPP and COVID-19 Fraud
Learn about the different types of PPP and COVID-19 fraud.
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The United States spent $4.4 trillion in response to COVID-19. With that much money being spent in such a short time, fraudsters pounced. Only whistleblowers are in a position to expose fraud in COVID-19 spending. And a whistleblower may be eligible to receive a share of the government’s recovery as a financial reward.
COVID-19 created new opportunities for fraudsters to target the healthcare system and government programs.
Whistleblowers who report PPP and COVID-19 fraud may be eligible to receive a share of the government’s recovery as a financial reward.
Here are some of the most common types of PPP and COVID-19 fraud:
Relief Fund Fraud or PPP Fraud
This involves submitting false information to obtain financial assistance from programs like the CARES Act. Examples include businesses lying about their size or financial hardship, or using funds for unauthorized purposes.
Billing Fraud
This can involve:
Medically Unnecessary Testing or Treatment: Billing for COVID-19 tests or treatments that weren't medically necessary for the patient.
False Billing: Submitting bills for services not performed, or inflating the number of tests or procedures conducted.
Telehealth Abuse: Using telehealth consultations for fraudulent purposes, like billing for non-existent consultations or unnecessary COVID-19 diagnoses.
Provider Fraud
Healthcare providers can commit fraud by:
Price Gouging: Overcharging for COVID-19 related supplies or equipment.
Fake Cures or Treatments: Promoting or selling ineffective treatments as cures for COVID-19.
Kickbacks: Offering or receiving kickbacks for referrals related to COVID-19 testing or treatment.
