By David Patterson
A phone call promising better benefits could cost you your privacy, your coverage and your money.
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period runs October 15 through December 7, giving beneficiaries an opportunity to review their coverage for 2027. Unfortunately, scammers also use this time to target older adults with deceptive calls, texts and mailers.
One common tactic? Someone calls claiming to be an “official Medicare representative” and offers to send a new Medicare card, upgrade your benefits or help you qualify for extra care.
Here’s what you need to know:
Medicare does not send sales representatives to your home. Be cautious of anyone claiming to be an official Medicare agent offering insurance.
You do not need to provide your Medicare number to an unsolicited caller. Never share personal or financial information with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Beware of pressure tactics. Claims that you must act immediately to avoid losing benefits or that you have won a special Medicare allowance should raise suspicion.
Be careful with “free” offers. Free medical equipment, genetic testing or extra benefits may be used to obtain your personal information or bill Medicare for services you did not receive.
Review your coverage before making changes. A plan change could affect your doctors, prescriptions, costs and benefits.
What should you do?
Hang up on suspicious callers. Do not click links in unexpected Medicare-related texts or emails. Verify information using the phone number on your Medicare card or by visiting Medicare.gov.
If you suspect Medicare fraud, contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-877-808-2468 or Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE.
Remember, you are in control of your Medicare decisions. Take your time, ask questions and never let a stranger pressure you into changing your coverage.
Sources: Federal Trade Commission; Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services; Senior Medicare Patrol.
