Open Enrollment Medicare Scammers

Scam alert. Karen Roach/Shutterstock

This period is the thick of Medicare enrollment. It runs from October 15 to December 7. You may have many questions, and you may be researching your options. But beware, there are scammers out there who might take advantage.

Every year, thousands of seniors are the victims of Medicare scams. In 2021, imposters conned seniors out of $121 million. But what should you be on the lookout for, and how do you protect yourself?

Why the Medicare Scam?

Most people know that identity thieves steal credit card numbers or Social Security numbers. But Medical identity theft is more lucrative. Generally, 65 percent of Medicare scam victims pay $13,500 or more in fraudulent medical bills.

The Medicare numbers they scam out of their victims are used to make false medical claims. They also use your Medicare number to divert your prescriptions and use them illegally.

Consequences of Medicare Scam

One of the consequences of a medical scam is bad credit. The scammer uses or sells your information, which is then used with health care providers. Then, when the additional bills roll in, they come to your mailbox. You’re in danger of these false charges ruining your credit. It could take months or years to straighten out.

You’re usually healthy and don’t use your benefits often. But the scammer has your Medicare number and does use your benefits. If you have a big need for health care, you might find your benefits are tapped out. There’s nothing left for you. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to go back and trace it. This is especially true if you’re ill.

Your Medicare number has been used or sold. The user may have illnesses that you don’t have. If you have an emergency, prior treatments for the scammer on your medical records could conflict with what you need.

For example, your medical records may incorrectly say you’re not allergic to a drug because the scammer wasn’t. But, if you are allergic, there could be dire consequences. The Medicare scammer could jeopardize your life.

How Scammers Work

The primary information that the scammer is going for is your Medicare number. But they may also try to con you out of your Social Security number or bank account number.

But, unfortunately, they may already have some of your information, so that’s how they get you. They’ll tell you they’re from Medicare services and have some questions for you.

For example, they may have your home address and phone number. The crafty ones may even have your birthdate or Social Security number. This lulls you into a false sense of security.

Once they have you talking, they will ask you for your Medicare number. When they have it, they have you.

Keep in mind that a Medicare representative will not reach out to you, and they won’t ask for your number, because they already have it.

There are numerous ways that these scammers will try to have you tell them your number.

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Medicare Card Scam

Telling you your current Medicare card is invalid is a common maneuver. If you question them, they'll tell you to relax; it’s just your Medicare number they need. The alarm should go off. Your Medicare number is valuable.

Medicare will never call you to tell you the card is invalid. A Medicare card never expires.

If Medicare needs to speak with you, you’ll receive a letter to set up a phone interview. And even then, they already have your Medicare number and don’t need to ask.

Qualify for Free Medical Supplies

A scammer could find out about your health. For instance, if you use a catheter and need supplies, they may have learned about it. This opens up the door to call you with the offer of free medical supplies. They may go as far as offering you free prescriptions.

But to have these supplies free, you must supply your Medicare number and other information. They may even want your credit card number to pay for shipping.

The scammer is then free to use your Medicare number to charge Medicare for supplies or treatments.

Medicare ID Verification

Your Medicare coverage will be canceled if you don’t verify your identity. These are scary words. And the scammer knows this. So they’ll ask for detailed personal information like your Medicare number, Social Security number, date of birth, bank information, etc.

If you refuse, they‘ll threaten that you’ll lose your benefits. They usually come on strong. Don’t give in to the pressure. Medicare doesn’t verify in that manner.

Fraudulent Claim of Refund

A scammer might call or text you and say you have a refund. But, of course, you‘ll need to give them your Medicare number to receive this. They’ll also ask you for your bank information so they can deposit the money into your account.

The pressure is on when the scammer says you'll lose the money if you don’t act now.

How to Handle a Medicare Scammer

Medicare isn’t ever going to call you and ask for personal information. And they definitely don’t need your Medicare number when they already have it.

If someone calls and tells you they need your Medicare number, hang up.

Some of these scammers have a fake Medicare caller ID. Don’t fall for it. They’re just trying to convince you to give them your personal information.

Don’t Be a Medicare Scam Victim

Be vigilant with your personal information. And remember, your Medicare number is as valuable as your Social Security number. They are both worth money.

If you are fraudulently contacted, or if anyone asks for your Medicare number, report the incident. You can call the Federal Trade Commission at 1-800-MEDICARE, or go online at this website.

The Epoch Times Copyright © 2022 The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.