Scammers Target Seniors With DNA Tests, Health Agency Says

U.S. health officials are warning about a scam that targets senior citizens by offering them free DNA tests, adding to similar alarms from authorities in several states.

Companies offering the tests use the information gathered to steal identities or bill Medicare for unnecessary tests, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General said in an agency fraud alert. The fraudsters are targeting victims through telemarketing, booths at public events and door-to-door visits.

“If a genetic testing kit is mailed to you, don’t accept it unless it was ordered by your physician,” said Sheila Davis, a spokeswoman ...