One of the biggest threats to you and your security is scammers that try to get your Medicare Number. Scammers cost Medicare a lot of money each year and it can affect you, too, with higher healthcare costs and taxes. There are, however, a few ways you can help prevent fraud and protect yourself.
Your Medicare Number is just for you; no one else. Think of your Medicare card like a credit card. Don’t share your Medicare number with someone you don’t know. The only people that should have your number other than you are people you trust, like your doctor or pharmacist.
Scammers will try anything to get your Medicare Number. They might even use the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to steal your identity and commit Medicare fraud. If someone tells you they will send you a coronavirus test, masks, or other items in exchange for your Medicare Number or other personal information, it is a scam.
Don’t forget: Medicare will never call to verify your number, sell you anything over the phone, or visit your home.
Here are some other ways you can protect yourself from fraud:
- Record all doctor’s visits and tests in a calendar.
- Keep informed about recent Medicare scams
- Remember everything Medicare can and can’t do when working with you
- Don’t accept money or free gifts for medical care
- Don’t let anyone besides your doctors or other Medicare providers see your medical records.
You should also check for Medicare billing fraud by reviewing your claims and Medicare Summary Notice for any services you don’t recognize. Report anything suspicious to Medicare. If you’re unsure about anything, you can always check with Medicare. If you suspect fraud you can call the Medicare number at 1-800-MEDICARE.
Guarding your Medicare Number and other personal information, like your Social Security Number and banking information, is the best way to prevent Medicare fraud and identity theft from happening to you.
Report suspicious activity to Medicare and let us know if there’s anything else we can do to help keep you safe. Our team at Core Insurance Advisors wants to be your trusted resource!
