With Medicare enrollment growing, so are scams targeting unsuspecting beneficiaries. Fraudsters use deceptive tactics to steal personal information, promising fake benefits or pretending to be from Medicare itself. Knowing how to identify and avoid these scams is crucial to protecting yourself.
Understanding Medicare Scams
Scammers often pose as Medicare representatives, calling or emailing beneficiaries to ask for personal details like Social Security numbers or bank information. However, Medicare never calls you unexpectedly or asks for sensitive details over the phone.
Common Medicare Scams
- Fake Medicare Calls – Scammers claim to be from Medicare and request your personal information.
- Social Security Number Fraud – Fraudsters insist they need your Social Security number to verify or renew coverage, which Medicare does not require.
- Bogus Free Offers – Scammers promise “free” medical equipment or services in exchange for your Medicare number.
How to Stay Safe
- Never give out your Medicare or Social Security number unless you initiate the contact.
- Hang up on unsolicited Medicare calls—Medicare will not call you to verify personal details.
- Report suspected fraud to the Medicare fraud hotline.
Final Thoughts
Scammers prey on confusion about Medicare. Staying informed and skeptical of unsolicited calls or emails can help protect you from fraud. Always verify information directly with Medicare before sharing any personal details.
