Medicare scam calls: how to spot the fake Medicare caller
Quick answer
A caller who says they're from Medicare and asks for your Social Security, bank or card number is a scammer. The FTC says Medicare won't ask for personal information to give you a new card, and cards are free. Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE yourself.
- Comes by
- Phone call, Text
- Pretends to be
- Medicare
- Last updated
How it works
Scammers pretend to be Medicare, often saying you need a "new" Medicare card or number. The FTC's alert explains the pitch: they ask for your Social Security number, bank account or card number to "issue" it.
The FTC says Medicare will never ask you to give personal information to get a new Medicare number and card, and that if anyone calls and says you need to pay for a card, it's a scam. Real cards are free.
Caller ID is no proof. These calls can be spoofed so they look like they come from Medicare. The FTC advises hanging up and calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to check.
The FTC has also said scammers get more active around Medicare Open Enrollment, which runs October 15 to December 7.
Red flags
- A caller claiming to be Medicare who asks for your Social Security, bank or card number
- Being told you must pay for a new Medicare card
- A threat that your coverage will end unless you act now
- Caller ID showing Medicare: it can be spoofed
- An unexpected call during open enrollment offering a plan or card
Example message
This is Medicare. We're issuing new cards and need to confirm your Medicare number, Social Security number and bank details so your coverage isn't interrupted. Call [phone number] now.
What to do
- 1
Hang up
Don't give out any numbers. Medicare won't ask for personal information to give you a new card.
- 2
Call Medicare yourself
Call 1-800-MEDICARE to check, using the number the FTC lists. Don't call back the number that rang you.
- 3
If you gave bank details, call your bank
The FTC advises talking to your bank immediately. Use the number on your card or statement.
- 4
If you gave your Social Security number, protect your identity
Consider a credit freeze and watch for new accounts. Our guide on what to do after a data breach covers the steps.
- 5
Report it
Report Medicare impersonators to 1-800-MEDICARE, then tell the FTC.
Report it
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.
Why you got it
Scammers rarely pick targets at random. Your name, number, address and email are sold by data brokers, listed on people-search sites and leaked in breaches, and that is what lets a message use your real details. Serus finds where your details are listed and requests removal, and alerts you when your data shows up in a breach, so fewer scammers can reach you. Older adults are common targets, and people-search listings often show age and relatives.
Frequently asked
Do I have to pay for a Medicare card?
No. The FTC says Medicare cards are free and mailed to you, and anyone who says you must pay is a scammer.
Will Medicare call me to confirm my number?
The FTC says Medicare will never ask you to give personal information to get a new Medicare number and card.
The caller ID said Medicare. Is it real?
Caller ID can be spoofed. Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE.
When are Medicare scams worst?
The FTC says scammers get busier during Open Enrollment, October 15 to December 7.
Sources
Something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we'll re-check it.