People have thousands of dollars in their Medicare accounts, which is why they need to safeguard any information that makes it easier for thieves to gain access. Those looking for financial gain take several avenues to steal Medicare benefits. So your social security number, Medicare identification number, and other sensitive details are kept secret, follow the advice here.

How to Avoid Medicare Scams

1. Don’t Engage in Suspicious Phone Calls

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) controls Medicare and other national health insurance programs. This agency and any other government office correspond with individuals through official mail. Beware of phone calls from people claiming to represent the federal government. A scammer could claim they need your social security number or ID code to update Medicare benefits or send a new card. So you don’t accidentally provide information, hang up as soon as someone says they work for the federal government. Don’t offer details by giving “yes” or “no” responses to robocalls. 

2. Delete Emails Immediately

Even if an email looks official, it isn’t from a government agency. Medicare representatives won’t use an email address to obtain information. In addition to Medicare ID numbers, the emails might request banking account details and other financial information to make updates to your account. Scammers might also try to alarm people into taking immediate action by claiming the account will be suspended unless they provide the information. As the Medicare office won’t reach out over the Internet, don’t respond to these emails. 

3. Report Scams to the Authorities

If you gave information to a Medicare scammer over the phone or through email, call 1-800-MEDICARE immediately. Representatives can direct you to the fraud department. Provide your Medicare ID code as well as the email address or phone number of the scammer. Let the representative know what information you disclosed. A flag might be put on your account to monitor suspicious activity. You might also be asked to change account information to prevent future attacks.

For help receiving and protecting Medicare benefits, contact the professionals at Medicare Planning of Dayton in Dayton, OH. With over 50 years of experience, the Medicare consultants help residents in Montgomery and Greene counties navigate the plans to find the right fit. Find details online, and call (937) 504-9999 for a Medicare consultation. Find more advice to safeguard your future on Facebook.