Medicare Season Is Scam Season

October marks the start of Medicare open enrollment, and unfortunately, the peak season for Medicare fraud. From October 15 to December 7, eligible beneficiaries can review options and make changes to their Medicare health and Part D prescription drug plans.

It’s always a good idea to compare your options, especially if your health needs have changed. However, be cautious. Not every offer is what it seems as criminals often take advantage of this heightened public attention to target beneficiaries.

If you or a loved one is on Medicare, here are some tips to help avoid scams during this open enrollment season.

How It Works:

• You receive a call, text, email or in-person visit from someone claiming to be a Medicare agent or insurance provider.
• You may be urged to act quickly to avoid losing your benefits, pressured to purchase a limited-time offer that promises to save you thousands of dollars or enticed with a free gift.
• They may request sensitive information, such as your Medicare and Social Security numbers or bank and credit card information.

What You Should Know:

• Criminals often use caller ID spoofing to make a call appear as if it’s coming from Medicare or a trusted source.
• The scammers may sound professional, claim to represent Medicare and have some of your personal information. But in reality, they’re trying to steal your money, Medicare information or identity.
• Legitimate government agencies won’t contact you by phone unless you’ve called 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) first.

What You Should Do:

• Protect sensitive information by not sharing it with anyone who contacts you out of the blue.
• Be suspicious of unsolicited offers for a new Medicare plan and don’t be rushed into making a decision. You have until December 7 to enroll, and Medicare doesn’t offer extra benefits for signing up early.
• Safely compare plans and change enrollment by going to medicare.gov or calling 800-633-4227.
• Each state also has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that offers unbiased, one-on-one counseling to help you navigate the complexities of Medicare.
• Contact Senior Medicare Patrol in your area to report Medicare fraud or to seek assistance.