Scam Season: How to Spot Fake “Medicare” Calls

Open Enrollment attracts scammers. Protect yourself with these quick rules.

Three red flags

• Surprise calls claiming to be from “Medicare” asking for your Medicare Number or SSN

• Pressure tactics (“re‑enroll now or lose coverage”)

• Gifts or cash offers in exchange for your Medicare Number

Medicare’s guidance: Don’t join a plan over the phone unless you called first. If something feels off, hang up and call 1‑800‑MEDICARE or your plan directly.

How to report (and get help)

• Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Local help to review your bills and report fraud. 877‑808‑2468 or online.

• Medicare: Report fraud/abuse and get instructions.

• HHS OIG tip line: 1‑800‑HHS‑TIPS (1‑800‑447‑8477).

  
  

Checklist: Prevent, detect, report

• Guard your Medicare Number

• Check your statements (MSN/EOB) for unfamiliar charges

• Report quickly—mistakes and fraud are easier to stop early

If a call seems off, hang up—then call us or HICAP for guidance: 559‑224‑9117.