Common Medicare Scams to Avoid
October 15, 2024 | Todd Lewison
Unfortunately, Medicare scams are on the rise. As technology continues to become more advanced, these scams are increasingly common and sophisticated. Scammers will try just about anything to convince you to share your personal information with them, from fear tactics to the promise of freebies and prizes. Keep reading to find out more about the most common scams among seniors and Medicare beneficiaries.
Fake Freebies
Scammers may call you and offer enticing free products and services like free health check ups or free medicare supplies. While these offers may seem intriguing and legitimate, it is important to remember that your actual Medicare provider will not call or come to your house with unsolicited free offers.
Calls to Confirm a Medicare Number
If someone cold calls you and asks you to confirm your medicare number to keep your benefits, refrain from giving your personal information to the caller. Contact your Medicare Insurance Agent to let him or her know of any suspicious calls that you have received.
False Refunds
Scammers may call you and state that you will be getting money back due to changes made by Medicare. They will ask for your Medicare number and your bank account information, but make sure that you do not disclose any of this information to these strangers. If you are actually eligible for a refund, a check will be sent to your residence.
Issuing New Medicare ID Cards
Medicare beneficiaries report having ‘Medicare representatives’ calling and stating they are issuing new medicare cards. They will ask you to confirm your information so they can send you your new card. Note that there are very few circumstances in which Medicare will call you directly. So if you get a call like this, hang up and do not share any personal information.
Extravagant Gifts
Be wary of scammers who call you and offer to give you extremely expensive gifts worth hundreds of dollars in exchange for your Medicare number and other personal information to enroll in their program. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, “ Medicare Insurance Agents can’t offer gifts to potential enrollees of more than $15.”
With these tips, you won’t have to worry about being outsmarted by the newest Medicare Identity Theft schemes.
At Twin City Underwriters, our Medicare Insurance Agents are here to help you ward off Medicare scammers, answer your questions, consult with you about concerns you may have, and find the best plan for your specific needs and budget. Contact us today to get started.
This is an updated blog post that was originally published in 2019.
Sources:
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/02/07/beware-theres-a-new-wave-of-medicare-scammers.html
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