Protect Yourself from Medicare Scam Calls

Understanding Medicare Scam Calls

We've noticed an increase in scam calls targeting seniors. It’s crucial to have the right information to protect yourself. Scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people, especially those over 70. They often pretend to be from Medicare or other official-sounding organizations. Their tactics can be very convincing.

What Are These Scam Calls Doing?

These callers aim to get your personal information, such as your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank account details. They use this information to commit identity theft, file fraudulent Medicare claims in your name, or even withdraw money from your accounts.

Here are some common tactics they use:

• Promising "Free" Services or Equipment: They might offer "free" medical equipment, like back braces or knee braces, genetic testing, or other services in exchange for your Medicare number. They then bill Medicare for services you never received or didn't need.

  
  

• Threatening to Cancel Benefits: They may claim there's a problem with your Medicare account or that your benefits will be canceled if you don't immediately "verify" your information or switch to a "new" plan.

  
  

• Offering New Medicare Cards or Refunds: They might say you need a new Medicare card and ask for your personal details to "process" it. Alternatively, they may claim you're due a refund and need your bank information to send it.

  
  

• Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency. They might tell you that an offer is for a "limited time only" or that you need to act "immediately" to avoid losing something. This is designed to make you panic and give out information without thinking.

  
  

• Spoofing Caller ID: They can make their phone number appear as "Medicare" or a local number on your caller ID, making the call seem legitimate.

  
  

How to Avoid Being Scammed

The good news is that by being aware and following a few simple rules, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

1. Medicare Will NOT Call You Out of the Blue: If someone calls you unexpectedly claiming to be from Medicare and asks for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank details, it is almost certainly a scam.

   
   

2. Hang Up Immediately: If you receive a suspicious call, the safest thing to do is just hang up. You don't need to explain yourself.

   
   

3. Do NOT Trust Caller ID: Scammers can "spoof" numbers to make them look official. Even if it says "Medicare" or a familiar number, it could still be a scam.

   
   

4. Never Give Out Your Personal Information Over the Phone: Only share this information with your doctor, pharmacy, or other legitimate providers when you know who you are speaking with and why.

   
   

5. Be Wary of "Free" Offers: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Medicare does not typically offer "free" products or services in exchange for your personal information.

   
   

6. Don't Feel Pressured: Legitimate organizations will not demand immediate action or threaten you. Take your time to think and verify any claims.

   
   

7. If You're Unsure, Call Medicare Directly: If you have any doubts about a call, hang up and call the official Medicare helpline at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). You can also look up the phone number on your official Medicare card or through the Medicare.gov website.

   
   

8. Shred Old Medicare Cards: If you receive a new Medicare card, destroy your old one immediately. Medicare will never ask you to return your old card.

   
   

9. Monitor Your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) and Explanation of Benefits (EOBs): These documents show what Medicare has been billed for. Review them carefully to ensure all services listed were actually received by you. If you see anything suspicious, question it.

   
   

What to Do If You Suspect You've Been Scammed

Your actions can help protect others! If you suspect you've been scammed or nearly scammed, take the following steps:

• Report It to Medicare: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) right away.

  
  

• Contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG): You can call their hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477) or submit a report online.

  
  

• Reach Out to Your Local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): SMPs are programs dedicated to helping seniors prevent, detect, and report healthcare fraud. You can find your local SMP by visiting smpresource.org or calling 1-877-808-2468.

  
  

• Report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File a complaint at FTC.gov/complaint.

  
  

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Safe

I am here to support you. If you ever feel uneasy about a call or have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Your safety and peace of mind are my top priorities. Remember, being informed is your best defense against scams. Stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.