Board Update: DEA Scam Warning for Licensees
Published: November 18, 2025
The Oregon Board of Optometry is sharing an important warning after a licensee reported receiving a call from an individual claiming to be a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent.
Reported Scam Activity
According to the report, the caller knew the licensee’s name and phone number and claimed there was a concern involving controlled substances connected to the licensee’s name and medical license number.
The caller left a phone number for a return call. When the licensee called back, another person claimed there was an investigation involving the DEA license and illegal drugs.
Important Warning
Be cautious if you receive a similar call. A government agency investigating potential legal action would generally provide written notice rather than making an initial contact by phone.
Do not call back, provide personal information, confirm account details, or share license information with unexpected callers.
What Licensees Should Know
- Your name and license number may be publicly available information.
- Scammers may also find your phone number or address online.
- That does not mean the caller is connected to a legitimate government agency.
If you are unsure whether a call is legitimate, ask the caller to send written information by mail. Do not provide your address or any additional details. A legitimate agency would already have that information.
How to Protect Yourself
- Do not return suspicious calls.
- Do not provide personal, financial, or license information.
- Do not follow instructions from unknown callers who create urgency or fear.
- Keep a record of the phone number, date, time, and details of the call.
Need Help?
If you have questions, contact the Oregon Board of Optometry for assistance.
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