**Title: Gesy to Implement Caller Identification for Enhanced Security Starting September**
The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO), which oversees the national healthcare system in Cyprus known as Gesy, announced on Monday that it will introduce a new caller identification requirement for individuals contacting the system starting in September. This measure is aimed at bolstering the security of personal information and preventing identity theft.
Under the new protocol, any calls made to Gesy operators that involve personal details will necessitate that the caller identify themselves. Upon reaching the call centre, callers will be required to state their name and the nature of their inquiry. If the inquiry pertains to personal information, the caller will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) sent via text message to their registered mobile phone. This OTP will be valid for a duration of five minutes.
During this five-minute window, the caller must relay the OTP back to the Gesy operator. This step is crucial as it allows the operator to verify the caller’s identity by matching the provided name with the phone number in Gesy’s records. Following this verification, the operator will further request the caller’s ID number and date of birth to ensure additional security before proceeding with the inquiry.
It is important to note that queries which do not involve personal information will not be subjected to this new identification process, streamlining the experience for those seeking general information.
The HIO has emphasized the importance of keeping contact information up-to-date to facilitate this new security measure. Beneficiaries of Gesy are encouraged to ensure that their mobile numbers and other relevant details are current in the system to avoid any disruptions when seeking assistance.
This initiative is part of the HIO's ongoing efforts to enhance the security of personal data and improve the overall quality of services provided through Gesy. The organisation's commitment to safeguarding sensitive information reflects a growing awareness of the risks associated with identity theft in the digital age.
The Gesy call centre operates daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, with reduced hours from 8 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays. The centre remains closed on Sundays and public holidays. Callers can reach the service toll-free by dialing 17000.
As the implementation date approaches, the HIO is expected to provide further details to ensure that beneficiaries are well-informed about the new procedures and their implications for accessing healthcare services through Gesy.