PSA: “Medicare” Phone Calls — They’re Usually Scams
Medicare does not call you out of the blue. Medicare nor Social Security will call you and ask for your Medicare number, Social Security number, bank details, or other private information. Legitimate calls happen only if you requested a callback or if a plan you’re already working with is following up on your enrollment.
How These Calls Start (EXAMPLES)
- “Hi, this is John from Medicare on a recorded line. How are you today?”
- “This is Shelly with Medicare enrollment. Can you hear me OK?”
Why these calls are typically scams
-
Medicare doesn’t cold-call or send someone to your home to collect personal data.
-
Scammers ask for your Medicare or Social Security numbers to bill fraudulently or enroll you without permission.
-
The number may look like a local phone number—caller ID can be faked.
-
Common words the caller will usually use include “refunds,” “replacement cards,” or “free tests/equipment.”
- Medicare doesn’t call you to tell you about new plans that are available in your area.
What to do if you get one
-
Hang up immediately. Don’t engage or press any keys.
-
Do not share information. Never give your Medicare/SSN or financial details to an unexpected caller.
- Ignore pressure tactics. You won’t lose coverage for refusing to “act now.”
Quick verification rule
If you need to check anything about your coverage, you initiate the call using the number on your Medicare card or your insurance plan’s member services line—never call back a number provided by a random caller.
Remember
- Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers.
- If you are being pressured for information immediately, hang up!
- Never give out personal information such as account numbers, Social Security numbers, mother’s maiden names, passwords or PINS over the phone.
Report Medicare Fraud and Abuse.
File a consumer complaint about robocall scams.
