Scammers Target Seniors Ahead of Medicare Open Enrollment

Even though the Medicare open enrollment period is still over a month away, scams are already on the rise. Seniors are being inundated with phone calls, texts, and emails from scammers.

Some of these con artists attempt to obtain Medicare numbers by sending misleading messages about missing benefit information, while others lure victims in with promises of free benefits or new Medicare cards. It’s just… a lot, really—a barrage of communications that can feel quite overwhelming.

Daily Disturbances

Delores Reed, a recent retiree who relies on Medicare, has shared that she receives multiple calls throughout the day. Oddly enough, she’s listed on the ‘Do Not Call’ registry. Yet, these callers never disclose who they’re representing.

Reed suspects most of these calls are scams. “If you were truly from an insurance company, you’d identify yourself right away,” she remarked. She’s particularly concerned that some seniors might feel pressured into divulging personal details.

“It certainly seems like they’re focusing on seniors,” she added, highlighting this worrying trend.

Recognizing the Red Flags

Amy Nofziger, who oversees victim support at the AARP Fraud Watch Network, outlined several warning signs to watch out for:

• Medicare will never reach out to confirm your Medicare number. “They already have that information,” Nofziger explained. “You won’t receive any calls, texts, or emails asking you to confirm your Medicare number.”
• Any mention of a new or upgraded Medicare card is suspicious. “Medicare doesn’t issue upgraded cards or plastic ones,” she clarified, noting various recent claims about such offers.
• Promises of free gifts or medical equipment should also raise concerns. “If you truly need something like that, your doctor will handle it,” she emphasized.

The issue isn’t limited to just phone calls. Recently, over 40 health systems alerted patients about a “MyChart Medicare Kit” scam that is spreading through texts and emails.

If you come across any questionable emails or texts, it’s best to delete them. If a caller asks for your Medicare number, simply hang up. To report suspicious calls, it’s advisable to reach out directly to Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). For further assistance, the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline is available at 877-908-3360.

As for Reed, she has a simple message for the scammers: “Please do not call me again.” It’s a small plea that highlights the frustration many feel with these incessant interruptions.