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Understanding Medicare Card Scams

As technology evolves, so does the sophistication of fraudsters. December has been designated as a month of heightened awareness regarding Medicare fraud, especially pertaining to fake Medicare card scams. The New York StateWide Senior Action Council (StateWide), a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of over 3.6 million seniors in New York, has issued a warning to protect vulnerable individuals against deceitful tactics employed by scammers.

What Are Medicare Card Scams?

Scammers are known to impersonate Medicare representatives, claiming that new plastic or metal Medicare cards are being issued, which requires individuals to verify their personal information, such as their Medicare number. Maria Alvarez, the executive director of StateWide, emphasizes, "These calls are 100% false!" The organization aims to dispel this myth and arm seniors with the necessary information to combat such fraud.

Key Facts About Medicare Fraud Alerts

1. No New Plastic Cards: Medicare does not send out new plastic or metal cards. The original Medicare cards are standard paper and do not expire unless there are changes in eligibility.
2. Protect Personal Information: Seniors should never share personal or medical information over the phone when they do not expect a call. It's essential to perceive unexpected calls with skepticism, especially those requesting sensitive information.
3. Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers often employ technology to falsify their caller ID, making it appear as if the call is coming from Medicare or a healthcare provider.
4. Common Scams: With the New Year approaching, fraudsters commonly claim new Medicare cards will be issued. This is a recurring scam that often resurfaces yearly.

How to Protect Yourself

StateWide urges beneficiaries to take proactive steps to protect their personal data:

• - Hang Up on Suspicious Calls: If you receive a call asking for your Medicare number or personal information, hang up immediately.
• - Review Medicare Documents: Regularly check your Medicare Summary Notices (MSN) and Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to identify any unfamiliar charges.
• - Treat Medicare Information as Confidential: Keep your Medicare and Social Security numbers secure and treat them like credit card numbers; never disclose them to unsolicited callers.
• - Seek Help: If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud or have concerns about your Medicare number, contact the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) at 800-333-4374 or visit www.nysenior.org.

Educational Resources from StateWide

The New York StateWide Senior Action Council not only raises awareness regarding Medicare fraud but also provides educational resources and training for certified counselors who assist seniors in their fight against fraud. StateWide encourages all seniors to participate in their various programs and stay informed about their rights and options. With Medicare fraud costing taxpayers over $60 billion annually, the intrusiveness of scams poses a significant challenge to beneficiaries.

In conclusion, while December brings festive cheer, it also serves as a reminder to remain vigilant against Medicare-related scams. Seniors and their caregivers should stay informed, share this knowledge with friends and family, and take appropriate measures to safeguard their personal information. Together, we can build a stronger defense against these deceitful practices and ensure that seniors across New York remain protected.