The Top 7 Medicare Scams – Be Aware!

The Top 7 Medicare Scams – Be Aware!

Medicare scams are becoming more sophisticated every year, making it important for beneficiaries to know what warning signs to watch for. Scammers often pose as Medicare representatives, insurance agents, or healthcare providers in an attempt to steal personal information or money. A little awareness can go a long way in protecting your Medicare benefits and your identity. Here are seven of the most common Medicare scams and how to avoid becoming a victim.

Scam #1: The “New Medicare Card” Scam

If someone calls asking for your Medicare number… hang up.

There’s a common scam going around where callers claim to be from Medicare and say you need a new card or must “verify your information.” They’ll sound official. They may even have your name.

Then they ask for:
👉 Your Medicare number
👉 Social Security number
👉 Date of birth

Here’s the truth – Medicare will NOT call you out of the blue to ask for personal information. And you don’t need to “activate” a new card. If it’s real, it comes in the mail. No phone call required.

Scam #2: The “Free Medical Equipment” Scam

If you’re seeing ads or getting calls offering free:

• Back braces
• Knee braces
• Diabetic supplies

…and all they need is your Medicare number, this is a scam.

What actually happens?
They bill Medicare for equipment you may not need, or never even receive. That can:
❌ Mess up your medical record
❌ Affect future claims
❌ Trigger fraud flags under your name

The real rule is if your doctor didn’t order it, don’t accept it.

Scam #3: The “Your Medicare Will Be Canceled” Scam

These calls are designed to scare you into acting fast. They’ll say:

• “Your coverage is about to end”
• “You must verify your information immediately”
• “We need your Social Security number to keep your benefits active”

Let’s clear this up – Medicare does NOT cancel your coverage over a phone call, and they don’t threaten you for your information. If there’s ever a real issue, you’ll get official communication (not a random urgent call).

Scam #4: Billed for Services You Didn’t Receive

One of the most overlooked scams is being billed for services you never received. Scammers (and sometimes shady providers) use your information to bill Medicare for:

• Appointments you didn’t have
• Equipment you didn’t order
• Services you never got

And most people don’t catch it. Quick tip – review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN). If something looks off, it probably is.

Scam #5: Fake Medicare Mailers

Some mailers look official, but they’re designed to get you to call and switch plans without the full picture. They promise:

• Extra benefits
• Better coverage
• New options in your area

But here’s the reality – not all plans, or benefits, are available everywhere. Just because it came in the mail doesn’t mean it applies to you.

Scam #6: TV & Facebook Ads Promising “Free Benefits”

You’ve seen the ads that promise:

• Grocery cards
• Meal delivery
• Money back on your Part B premium

And yes… some plans do offer extra benefits, BUT, They are
✔️ Location-specific
✔️ Plan-specific
✔️ Qualification-based

Not everyone gets them. Switching plans just for a “free” benefit could cost you access to your doctors or medications.

Scam #7: Medicare Text Message Scams

Scam texts are on the rise, and they’re getting good. You might see messages like:

• “You may lose your Medicare benefits”
• “Click here to claim new benefits”

They want you to click the link and enter your information. Here’s the truth – Medicare does NOT send unsolicited texts asking for your personal info.

If you have questions about any mailing, text, or call you receive, please reach out to us and ask us if it is a scam. It’s better to be safe by consulting a trusted source, then get scammed. We can be reached at (972) 943-3943.

The Insurance Gal Team