Medicare Scams Rise on Recycled Lies

Criminals follow the headlines and prey on what’s top of mind, and for millions of Americans, this includes Medicare. The AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline has seen an increase in reports of Medicare scams that recycle old tactics designed to steal money and sensitive information.

These schemes are part of a growing trend: government impostor scams. In 2024 alone, consumers reported having more than $577 million stolen from criminals posing as officials from agencies like Medicare, according to the Federal Trade Commission. And because many incidents go unreported, the real number is likely much higher.

Here is what you, or a loved one, need to know to help spot and avoid Medicare scams.

HOW IT WORKS

• You get unexpected and urgent communications from someone claiming to be from Medicare.
• They may say you need a new card or that your birth date doesn’t match their records.
• They may warn that you’re about to lose benefits if you don’t act immediately.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Criminals often use caller ID spoofing to make a call appear as if it’s coming from Medicare or another trusted source.
• They may sound legitimate and even reference some of your personal details, but their goal is to steal your personal information or your money.
• Medicare will not call you unless you first receive a letter that you will be contacted or if you called and left a message.
• Medicare does not issue plastic cards or call to offer new ones.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• The only people who you can safely share Medicare information with are your health providers.
• If you’re concerned there might be a problem, contact Medicare directly at Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
• You can also reach out to the Senior Medicare Patrol in your area to report Medicare fraud or abuse and to seek assistance.