Why are Medicare Scams Increasing in the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Medicare scams are increasing in the COVID-19 pandemic. Motley Fool’s recent article entitled “Seniors, Be Wary of These Medicare Scams During COVID-19” discusses some red flags you should look out for to avoid being a victim.

1. Callers requesting your Medicare number. Medicare typically won’t call beneficiaries and randomly ask them to verify their benefits. If someone calls you and requests your Medicare ID number, don't give them your information.
2. Callers requesting your Social Security number. If a bad guy gets your Social Security number, he can do a number of things with that information, any of which will create headaches for you. This includes opening a credit card in your name and charging a lot of expenses on it. If you get a caller who says he’s a Medicare representative who needs your Social Security number to process a health claim, don't give it to him.
3. Email or phone calls asking you to send money. Medicare doesn't sell prescriptions over the phone or ask seniors to pre-pay for services. If someone calls asking you to send money or give out credit card information, it’s a bogus caller.
4. A promise for early access to a COVID-19 treatment or vaccine. Right now, there is no COVID-19 vaccine. There is also no mail-order treatment that you can stock up on to protect yourself in case you're struck with the virus. Therefore, don’t believe a caller who says he’s from Medicare and is offering you a chance to get in on a groundbreaking medication. Don't pay him or share your Medicare ID number during that conversation. When an effective vaccine is available, Medicare will pay for it and let you know how to get it.
5. Someone at your door claiming to be from Medicare. Medicare doesn’t have sales reps. Therefore, if someone says they’re from Medicare, lock the door and demand that that person leave immediately. Call the police, if you need help.

When a lot of seniors are worried, isolated, and in financial straits, they don’t need to fall victim to a scam. Be prepared and be aware of what common fraud attempts look like. That way, you’ll be in a good position to protect yourself.

If you receive a suspicious email or phone call, report it at 1-800-MEDICARE. This might prevent another senior from falling victim to what could be an extremely dangerous trap.

Reference: Motley Fool (May 25, 2020) “Seniors, Be Wary of These Medicare Scams During COVID-19”