How to Protect Yourself from Medicare Scam Calls — Expert Tips from a Trusted Medicare Agent

How to Protect Yourself from Medicare Scam Calls — Advice from Your Trusted Medicare Agent

As your trusted Medicare agent, my top priority is keeping you informed and protected from the growing number of scam calls targeting Medicare beneficiaries. Especially during Medicare Open Enrollment, fraudsters may contact you pretending to represent Medicare or other trusted organizations. Their goal? To trick you into revealing personal information or switching your coverage under false pretenses.

Here’s how to safeguard your information and stay one step ahead of scammers:

1. Know How Medicare Contacts You

Medicare will NEVER call you unsolicited.
If you receive a call claiming to be from Medicare asking for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank information—hang up immediately. Legitimate organizations do not ask for sensitive information over the phone without prior authorization.

2. Don’t Trust Caller ID

Scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make their calls look official. Even if the number appears to be from Medicare, your insurance carrier, or a local office, treat every unexpected call with caution.

3. Protect Your Personal Information

Never share your Medicare or Social Security numbers with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly—by phone, email, or text. Genuine Medicare agents and healthcare providers will already have the information they need to assist you.

4. Watch Out for Common Scam Tactics

Be suspicious of anyone offering:

• “Free” medical supplies, braces, or testing kits

• Assistance with “activating” or “renewing” your Medicare card

• Promises of better coverage at no cost

These are red flags that you’re dealing with a scammer.

5. Verify Before You Act

If you’re ever unsure whether a call or message is legitimate, call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). You can also reach out to your licensed Medicare agent for guidance.

6. Monitor Your Accounts

Review your Medicare Summary Notices or Explanation of Benefits regularly. Report any unauthorized charges, unfamiliar services, or duplicate claims immediately.

7. Dispose of Old Cards Safely

If you receive a new Medicare card, destroy your old one. Never share your card with anyone except your doctor or other trusted healthcare providers.

8. Reduce Unwanted Calls

• Register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222.

• Use your phone’s call-blocking settings or download a reputable call-blocking app.

While these steps won’t stop scammers who ignore the law, they can reduce legitimate telemarketing calls.

9. Report Suspicious Activity

If you suspect a scam or receive a suspicious call, report it to Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or notify your Medicare advisor right away. Early reporting helps prevent further fraud and protects others.

Stay Safe with Trusted Medicare Guidance

Your Medicare agent is here to help you navigate your coverage, understand your benefits, and stay safe from scams. If you ever have questions about your plan, enrollment options, or suspicious calls, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Your security and peace of mind are my top priorities.
Stay alert—and remember, you can always count on me as your Medicare resource.