Tips for Avoiding Medicare Scams

Tips for Avoiding Medicare Scams

How to protect yourself and your personal information

Medicare scams are unfortunately all too common, and seniors are often the prime target. Scammers will try everything from phone calls and emails to fake offers for free services, all with the goal of getting your Medicare number or other personal details.

The good news is that with a little knowledge and a few simple habits, you can avoid these traps. Here are some important tips to help you stay safe:

Guard Your Medicare Number Like a Credit Card

Your Medicare number is valuable to scammers because they can use it to bill Medicare for services or equipment you never received. Never give it out to someone who contacts you unexpectedly, even if they say they are from Medicare.

Do Not Trust Caller ID Alone

Scammers can make it look like a call is coming from a real number, even Medicare itself. If someone calls asking for your Medicare number, hang up. If you are unsure whether it was a real call, you can call 1-800-MEDICARE to double check.

Medicare Will Not Call You and Ask for Personal Info

Unless you have called them first, Medicare will not ask you to give out your Medicare number, Social Security number, or banking details over the phone.

Watch Out for “Free” Offers

Some scammers offer free medical supplies, COVID-19 tests, or health screenings, then ask for your Medicare number to “confirm your eligibility.” This is a common trick. If it is truly free, they should not need your Medicare number.

Review Your Medicare Summary Notices

Look over your Medicare statements carefully. If you see something you do not recognize, such as a charge for a service you did not receive, report it right away. This is one of the easiest ways to catch fraud early.

Report Anything Suspicious

If you think you have been targeted by a scam or notice suspicious charges, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or contact the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) in Kentucky at 1-877-603-6558. They can help you figure out your next steps.

You have the right to protect your personal information. Do not let anyone rush you or make you feel pressured. If something does not feel right, it is okay to say no and check with someone you trust.