DECEMBER 2020

THEY’RE BACK!  PHARMACISTS AND PHARMACY PERSONNEL SHOULD BE MINDFUL OF SCAM COMMUNICATIONS PURPORTING TO BE FROM BOARD OF PHARMACY STAFF

Back in the summer and then again in November, Board staff received information about a handful of instances in which someone pretending to be an NCBOP investigator (or "Board Officer") has called a pharmacist.  It’s happening again.

Board staff was notified that someone impersonating a Board Investigator called a pharmacist and gave a fake name (Mike Moore) and a fake NCBOP badge number (347219792)  as “proof” of identity.  The scammer is using a phone number spoofer so that the NCBOP main line – (919) 246-1050 – appears on caller ID.

The scammer asserted that he was working with DEA and FDA on a case involving “suspicious” and “unauthorized activities” involving “illegal drug trafficking”  by the pharmacist.  The scammer claimed to need various personal information to “verify” he was speaking with the pharmacist.  The scammer made various vague threats against recording the call or speaking to anyone about the investigation.  He demanded a “personal cell phone” number so he could discuss the case “securely.”  Background noise clearly indicates the scammer was working from a call center. 

Board staff reminds pharmacists and pharmacy staff that the names of all the Board’s investigators are listed on the NCBOP’s website, and if they are unsure or suspicious when contacted by someone claiming to be a Board staff member (whether by phone, email, or other communication) that they should contact the Board immediately. To be sure, Board staff frequently contact pharmacists and pharmacy staff on all manner of issues. But, again, if you are suspicious about the true identity of the caller, please reach out to the Board office directly.

Also, if you are the recipient of what appears to be a scam call, Board staff would appreciate your alerting us to that fact and providing as much information about the call and caller as you can -- including a recording if you’re able to make one.