How to combat Medicare scams with digital literacy
Scams and fraud are nothing new. But these days, criminals can now target people on the internet. Their goal is to steal personal information for financial gain. Here are the different types of fraud to watch out for and how to steer clear.
One of the most common scams involves fraudsters posing as Medicare workers. Their goal is to get people to send money or personal details, which can be used for identity theft.
These Medicare scams are a growing problem for older adults. According to the Social Security Administration, this type of fraud costs Americans more than $60 billion per year. On top of that, there’s often an emotional burden on the plan holder and their family.
The good news? If you know what to look out for, you’ll be ready to spot the scam if it happens to you.
Digital literacy and scams
Did you know that digital literacy skills can help you avoid fraud?
Digital literacy is one way of explaining how well someone can use technology to get things done. Part of being safe online is knowing when to share your personal and financial information, and when to keep it to yourself.
You probably already have some basic skills that help you stay safe online. When you spot a bogus email, screen a spam call or find a trustworthy site, that’s your digital literacy at work. With a little research, you can strengthen these skills and learn new ones.
Spot common Medicare scams
Learning about scams is one way to increase your digital literacy. If you know how these schemes unfold, you’re less likely to get fooled.
Fortunately, fraudsters often follow a predictable playbook. To stay safe, be alert to the following:
Phishing emails — Look out for emails claiming to be from Medicare that ask for your information. These emails may have blurry images, typos and urgent demands. These are red flags of phishing scams.
Social media scams — Scammers are known to spread disinformation on social media. They may reach out and ask for your Medicare information in exchange for extra benefits, free stuff or special deals. But no government organization will contact you this way. See the official Medicare.gov website for real updates and information.
Online advertisements — Ignore online ads that offer perks in exchange for Medicare information. This is a common scam that relies on false promises. If you share your details, they won’t deliver anything in return, but they may steal your identity.
How to avoid Medicare scams on your phone
If someone claiming to be a Medicare worker calls you out of the blue and asks to verify your information, it’s probably a scam.
Fraudsters might ask for Medicare numbers and other details. They may then use your information to submit false claims in your name. Or they may try to use it for identity theft. Either way, you want to keep your details out of the wrong hands.
To trick you into sharing too much, a scammer might say they can:
Enroll you in a better health plan or drug plan
Upgrade your Medicare card
Cancel your coverage unless you verify your info
Offer refunds or free service in exchange for your information
But Medicare won’t call you to sell you anything. Medicare workers will only contact you if you reach out for help or they will reply to a previous communication.
If you think someone is trying to scam you, hang up the call. You should never feel pressured to give out personal information. Don’t worry about appearing rude or uncooperative. You have the right to protect yourself from fraud.
What if you’ve already been scammed? If you think someone tricked you into sharing your Medicare number, you should report it. This includes:
Call 1-800-MEDICARE
Call the Federal Trade Commission’s Identity Theft Hotline: 1-877-438-4338
Report it to your health insurance provider
Report it online at the official U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website
Shield yourself from Medicare scams
Follow these best practices to help stay safe from fraud and scams:
Watch out for red flags such as high-pressure tactics, urgency or immediate requests for money
Keep your personal details safe. Regularly update your passwords and use antivirus software or firewalls.
Don’t share any personal information
Stay educated — look for classes on digital literacy at your local library, senior center or online
Visit the official Medicare site (medicare.gov) to verify any claims you see online
When it comes to Medicare scams, trust your instincts. If you think you’re being targeted, you probably are. When something feels wrong or misleading, or if an offer sounds too good to be true, it often is. End the conversation if your gut tells you that it might be a scam.
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Medicare Made Clear brought to you by UnitedHealthcare provides Medicare education so you can make informed decisions about your health and Medicare coverage.