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AARP Pennsylvania Sounds the Alarm for Increased Vigilance During Medicare Open Enrollment
Harrisburg, PA – AARP Pennsylvania strongly urges Medicare beneficiaries to exercise extra caution during this year's Medicare Open Enrollment period, which runs from October 15 to December 7. A recent data breach involving a government contractor put an alarming number of Medicare beneficiaries at risk, heightening the importance of vigilance during a time already susceptible to fraudulent activities.
"Hearing about any data breach always adds an extra layer of urgency to an already critical time. As people are making essential healthcare decisions during Medicare's Open Enrollment, we urge them to be vigilant in safeguarding their personal information," said Kate Kleinert, a volunteer with AARP Pennsylvania’s Consumer Issues Task Force.
Watch AARP’s “Fraud Watch Minute” on Medicare Open Enrollment and Related Scams
Why This Matters Even More Now
Each year during Medicare's Open Enrollment, there is a notable increase in fraudulent activities aimed at Medicare beneficiaries. This year's data breach has escalated the risk, making it more crucial than ever for individuals to be alert and cautious.
What You Can Do
- Double-Check Communication: Be skeptical of unsolicited calls or emails claiming to be from Medicare or healthcare providers. Always verify the source.
- Guard Your Medicare Number: Treat your Medicare Number like a credit card. Only provide it to trusted healthcare providers.
- Review Plans Carefully: During Open Enrollment, carefully review your healthcare and prescription options. Don't be rushed into making a decision by "limited-time offers."
- Consult Trusted Sources: Seek advice from credible sources like AARP's Medicare Resource Center before changing your healthcare plan.
David Kalinoski, Associate State Director of Outreach, added, "This Open Enrollment period is a critical time for Medicare beneficiaries to review and shop for the best health care plan while protecting their personal data. We cannot stress enough how vigilant individuals must be right now."
Additional Safety Measures
- Obtain a free credit report by either visiting www.annualcreditreport.com or calling 1-877-322-8228
- Regularly check your credit report for suspicious activity
- Be sure to use strong and unique passwords on all accounts and store them securely
Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 1-877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.
