Medicare Open Enrollment Scams: How to Spot the Warning Signs

Medicare Open Enrollment Scams

Have you received a call claiming there's a problem with your Medicare coverage? Maybe someone offered you a new Medicare card, free medical equipment, or benefits you didn't know you qualified for.

If so, you're not alone. As Medicare Open Enrollment approaches, criminals often increase their efforts to contact older adults by phone, text, and email. Their goal is simple: convince you to share personal information they can use to commit fraud.

Common Medicare Scam Warning Signs

They Want Your Medicare Number

A criminal may claim they need to verify your Medicare number to update your records, maintain your coverage, or confirm your eligibility for benefits.

If someone contacts you unexpectedly asking for your Medicare number, proceed with caution. Medicare already has your information and generally does not contact people enrolled in Medicare out of the blue to request it.

They Offer Something for Free

Be wary of unsolicited offers for free medical equipment, genetic testing kits, gift cards, or additional Medicare benefits.

Criminals often use these offers to collect personal information or submit fraudulent claims using a victim's Medicare number.

They Tell You There's a New Medicare Card

Another common scam involves callers claiming you're eligible for a new, upgraded, or more secure Medicare card.

These offers are often designed to create confusion and convince you to share sensitive information. Medicare does not generally call unexpectedly to offer upgraded cards.

They Pressure You to Act Immediately

Criminals frequently create a false sense of urgency, claiming you'll lose coverage, miss benefits, or need to act today to avoid a problem.

Don't let anyone rush you into making a decision. Taking a moment to verify the request can help you avoid becoming a victim.

How to Protect Yourself

A few simple habits can go a long way:

• Never share your Medicare number with an unsolicited caller.
• Don't provide account information, passwords, or verification codes.
• Be cautious of unexpected calls, texts, and emails about your benefits.
• Don't trust caller ID alone. It can be spoofed.
• If you're unsure, hang up and contact Medicare or your insurance provider directly using a trusted phone number.

The Bottom Line

Criminals know that Medicare Open Enrollment can create confusion, and they use that confusion to their advantage. If you receive an unexpected call, text, or email about your benefits, take a moment to verify the request before sharing any information.

A few extra minutes of caution could help protect both your identity and your finances. At National Exchange Bank, we're committed to helping our customers recognize fraud, prevent financial loss, and stay one step ahead of criminals.