Stay Safe: Navigating Medicare Scams During Enrollment

Cybersecurity Awareness Month aligns with Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, bringing heightened awareness to safeguarding personal information as seniors make critical health plan decisions. Unfortunately, this increased activity is also noted by scammers. Many people feel vulnerable during this time, and rightfully so. We understand these concerns and seek to provide a practical, protective guide for you or your loved ones.

Understand Common Scam Tactics

Be aware that scammers may offer "free" medical equipment or tests in exchange for your Medicare number, make threats about an expiring card or plan, or use high-pressure sales language. Recognizing these red flags can help you steer clear of fraudulent schemes.

Be Cautious with Unexpected Contact

Medicare will never initiate unsolicited calls, texts, or emails to request private details or payments. If you receive any such messages, it’s crucial to hang up, delete the text or email, and report the suspicious activity immediately.

Strengthen Your Digital Defenses

Improve your cyber defenses by creating strong, unique passwords, activating Multi-Factor Authentication, installing antivirus software, and regularly updating security patches. Never click on suspicious links, no matter how convincing they may appear.

Be Mindful on Social Media

It's easy to overshare on social media, but limiting personal information is important. Even innocent-looking quizzes or posts could be gleaning data that could help breach your accounts or guess security question answers.

Know How to Respond

• Hang up on suspicious callers.
• Block and report scam messages.
• Avoid unknown visitors to your home.
• Regularly review your Medicare notices for discrepancies.
• Report fraud by contacting 1-800-MEDICARE. Additionally, the local Senior Medicare Patrol is a supportive resource.

Vigilance goes a long way in protecting your personal and financial information. Remember, help is always available. Whether it’s from Medicare or trusted advisors, reach out if you have questions or need guidance during the Annual Enrollment Period. Stay safe and informed!