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  Greg Collier 9:00 am on November 11, 2026 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: health insurance ( 11 ), healthcare ( 50 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 )   

  Paying for Coverage That Doesn’t Cover Anything 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Shopping for health insurance is already stressful, particularly when premiums are rising and household budgets are stretched. But the search for affordable coverage can lead consumers into an entirely different kind of financial disaster when a seemingly attractive insurance offer turns out to be little more than an expensive promise.

  Some fraudulent health coverage operations are advertising unusually low premiums, collecting payments and then refusing to cover major medical expenses. In the worst cases, people who believed they were insured have ended up facing hospital bills reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.

  As open enrollment gets underway, officials are warning consumers about a growing problem that extends beyond any one state. Oregon regulators have reported a sharp increase in complaints involving questionable health coverage, but the same basic scheme can target anyone searching online for an affordable insurance plan.

  The Health Insurance That Doesn’t Pay When You Need It

  According to Oregon news station KVAL, Oregon’s Division of Financial Regulation is seeing an increase in fraudulent and misleading health coverage offers. Insurance Commissioner TK Keen says some consumers are being sold plans that promise far more protection than they actually provide.

  One particularly troubling example involves arrangements in which an organization collects money from members and describes itself as a group that shares health care costs rather than an actual insurance company. When a member needs expensive medical treatment, the organization may decide whether it will contribute toward the bill.

  That distinction can become devastating when someone assumes the arrangement functions like traditional health insurance. Keen described cases in which consumers suffered major medical emergencies, including heart attacks, and subsequently received hospital bills ranging from $70,000 to $100,000. The organization they had been paying did not cover the expenses.

  The consumer is left dealing with the medical crisis and a massive financial obligation, despite having spent money believing they had protection.

  Other schemes are more straightforward. Fraudulent websites advertise health insurance policies with extremely low premiums, collecting payments from people who may not discover the coverage is worthless until they try to use it.

  Rising Costs Make Consumers More Vulnerable

  The timing of the warning is significant. Health insurance costs have become a growing concern for many households, and consumers facing higher premiums may be tempted by alternatives that appear to offer similar coverage for a fraction of the price.

  Keen told KVAL that the expiration of federal Affordable Care Act subsidies at the end of last year contributed to higher insurance costs, pushing some people to search for cheaper options.

  Scammers and questionable coverage providers understand that desperation. An offer promising comprehensive coverage at an unusually low monthly price can look like a welcome solution to someone worried about affording medical care.

  These offers are easy to find through online searches. Someone searching Google for health insurance or health coverage can encounter a wide variety of plans and arrangements, making it difficult to distinguish legitimate insurance from questionable alternatives.

  That is what makes this a problem for consumers nationwide. The websites and online advertisements promoting these offers are not confined to the communities where regulators first identify them. Anyone searching for affordable coverage can potentially encounter them.

  Not Every Health Coverage Offer Is Actual Insurance

  One of the biggest problems is that some organizations deliberately blur the distinction between health insurance and other arrangements for paying medical expenses.

  Health care sharing arrangements, for example, may collect contributions from members and distribute money toward eligible medical expenses. But they are not necessarily insurance policies, and they may not guarantee payment when someone needs care.

  A consumer who sees words such as “health coverage,” “medical benefits” or “health care protection” may assume the arrangement offers the same safeguards as a conventional insurance policy. That assumption can prove costly.

  Before signing up, consumers should understand exactly what they are purchasing, what medical services are covered, whether payments are guaranteed, and what happens when they need expensive treatment. They should also determine whether the company or agent is properly licensed to sell insurance in their state.

  An unusually low premium should be a reason to investigate, not an automatic reason to celebrate.

  How to Avoid Fake Health Insurance Offers

  Regulators recommend working with a qualified insurance agent and using trusted sources when comparing coverage. Consumers should be especially cautious of websites promising extensive benefits at prices that seem dramatically lower than comparable plans.

  Be careful about how you find those websites, too. Oregon officials advise consumers to type a known insurance marketplace’s web address directly into their browser rather than clicking unfamiliar search results. They also caution against relying on paid advertisements when looking for coverage.

  If an offer comes from an unfamiliar company, verify its licensing status with your state’s insurance regulator before providing payment information or personal details. A legitimate-looking website, professional sales pitch, or official-sounding company name does not establish that the organization is authorized to sell insurance.

  Consumers should also read the actual policy or membership agreement rather than relying on verbal promises. Ask direct questions about hospital stays, emergency treatment, prescription drugs, preexisting conditions, and major medical procedures. If the representative cannot clearly explain what is covered, that is a reason to walk away.

  Complaints Are Rising as Open Enrollment Continues

  The increase in complaints reported by Oregon regulators shows how quickly these problems can grow. Keen said the state would normally receive an average of about five complaints per month involving these issues. That number has climbed to approximately 20 to 30 complaints monthly.

  The Division of Financial Regulation says it works with state and federal law enforcement to investigate suspected fraud and pursue cases when appropriate.

  The open enrollment period makes the warning especially timely. According to the Oregon report, enrollment ends January 15. People seeking coverage beginning January 1 must enroll by December 31, while those enrolling later will generally have coverage begin February 1.

  Consumers should avoid letting enrollment deadlines push them into a decision they have not properly researched. A plan that looks affordable today could become a financial catastrophe if it fails to pay when a medical emergency occurs.

  Cheap Health Coverage Can Come With an Enormous Price

  Health insurance is supposed to provide financial protection when people need medical care. But scammers and misleading coverage operations are exploiting the difficulty many consumers face when trying to afford it.

  A monthly payment that seems manageable can create a false sense of security, particularly when the seller promises protection against major medical expenses. The real cost may not become apparent until a hospital sends a bill for $70,000 or more and the supposed coverage provider refuses to pay.

  The Oregon warning should serve as a reminder to consumers everywhere: Not everything advertised as health coverage is health insurance, and a low premium does not necessarily mean a good deal.

  Before handing over money, verify the company, understand the coverage, and make sure the policy provides the protection being promised. When it comes to health insurance, discovering that your plan isn’t real after a medical emergency is far too expensive a lesson to learn.

   

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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on October 12, 2026 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: health insurance ( 11 ), medicare ( 23 ), new medicare card ( 8 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 )   

  The Medicare Scam That’s Hiding Behind Open Enrollment 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Medicare open enrollment is a chance for beneficiaries to review their health coverage, compare plans, and decide whether to make changes for the coming year. Unfortunately, it is also prime time for scammers looking to exploit confusion, promise fake benefits, and steal sensitive personal information.

  Starting October 15, Medicare beneficiaries may find themselves fielding calls and texts from people claiming to represent Medicare, insurance companies, or government assistance programs. Some callers may promise better coverage, lower premiums, a replacement Medicare card, or free medical equipment. Others may warn that benefits are about to expire unless the recipient acts immediately.

  These pitches can sound convincing, especially when they arrive during a legitimate enrollment period. But as experts warn, a call about Medicare is not necessarily a call from Medicare.

  Scammers Know Exactly When to Strike

  The Better Business Bureau is already hearing from people receiving suspicious calls ahead of open enrollment, according to a report from WAFF. Karen Reeves of the BBB warned that callers may use the enrollment period to push supposed coverage upgrades, new cards, and free medical equipment.

  This timing is no accident. Scammers pay attention to the news and the calendar, looking for moments when people are likely to expect official communications or feel pressure to make a decision.

  Medicare open enrollment provides the perfect cover. Beneficiaries know that plan options can change and that they have a limited window to review their coverage. A scammer can exploit that awareness by pretending to offer help with a deadline, a new benefit, or a problem with an existing plan.

  The Federal Trade Commission has also warned that scammers become more active around Medicare open enrollment, impersonating government agencies or insurance representatives to obtain personal and financial information. Its guidance on avoiding Medicare open enrollment scams explains how these pitches work and what consumers can do to protect themselves.

  The lesson is simple: scammers do not need to invent a fake event when a real one gives them a believable excuse to call.

  The “New Medicare Card” Trick

  One common tactic involves a caller claiming that a beneficiary needs a new, updated, or upgraded Medicare card. The caller may say the card is required to maintain coverage, access new benefits, or qualify for a special program.

  The supposed representative then asks the beneficiary to verify a Medicare number, Social Security number, date of birth, or other personal details. In some cases, the caller may also request bank account or credit card information.

  The story is a setup to collect information that can be used for identity theft or fraudulent medical claims.

  According to the FTC’s guidance on government impersonation scams, legitimate Medicare cards are issued automatically and are free. You do not need to pay a caller to receive one.

  If an unexpected caller says your card is outdated or that you must provide sensitive information to keep your benefits, do not play along. Hang up and verify the claim independently.

  Free Medical Equipment May Come With a Hidden Cost

  Another tempting pitch involves supposedly free medical supplies or equipment. A caller may offer back braces, knee braces, or other products at no cost to the beneficiary.

  The offer might sound like a generous benefit, but scammers can use a Medicare number to submit fraudulent claims for equipment that was never medically necessary, never ordered, or never delivered.

  That can create problems beyond the initial theft of personal information. Fraudulent claims may appear on Medicare records, consume benefits, and make it harder to spot legitimate billing problems.

  The FTC has previously warned about medical equipment scams targeting Medicare beneficiaries. If you need medical equipment, discuss it with your healthcare provider rather than accepting an unsolicited offer from a stranger.

  Remember that a caller’s promise of “free” equipment does not make the offer legitimate. The scammer may be interested in your Medicare information, not your medical needs.

  Fake Text Messages Can Be Just as Dangerous

  Not every scammer picks up the phone. AARP warns that people may also receive text messages seeking Medicare, Social Security, or bank account information.

  These messages may claim that an account needs verification, a benefit is waiting, or an enrollment issue must be resolved. A link may lead to a fake website designed to look like an official government service or insurance portal.

  Once a victim enters personal information, scammers can use it for identity theft, account fraud, or bogus medical claims.

  Treat unexpected texts about Medicare with the same suspicion as unsolicited calls. Do not click links or reply with sensitive information. Instead, visit the official Medicare website by typing Medicare.gov into your browser, or call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

  Be skeptical even if the message includes your name or other accurate details. Information that makes a message look personal does not prove the sender is legitimate.

  The Scam Can Continue Long After the Call

  Some Medicare fraud does not become obvious until much later.

  If scammers obtain a beneficiary’s Medicare number, they may attempt to bill Medicare for services or equipment the person never received. That means someone who hands over information during a brief phone call may discover the consequences weeks or months later.

  Reeves urged beneficiaries to review their Medicare statements carefully and question charges for services they did not receive.

  Make a habit of checking your Medicare Summary Notice or other relevant plan statements. Look for unfamiliar providers, equipment you never ordered, duplicate charges, or services you do not remember receiving.

  If something looks wrong, contact your healthcare provider or plan to ask about the charge. You can also contact Medicare or your local Senior Medicare Patrol for help identifying and reporting suspected fraud.

  The FTC’s Medicare fraud guidance explains how fraudulent billing and medical identity theft can affect beneficiaries.

  You Do Not Have to Change Plans Just Because Enrollment Opens

  Medicare open enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7. Changes made during this period generally take effect January 1.

  Beneficiaries can review their current coverage, compare available options, and decide whether a different plan better suits their needs. But the beginning of open enrollment does not mean everyone must change plans.

  The official Medicare open enrollment page explains what changes are available and how the process works.

  If you want help comparing plans, use Medicare’s official resources or seek assistance from a trusted, independent counselor. Beneficiaries in most states can find local assistance through their own stae’s program.

  Do not let a caller manufacture urgency by claiming you must enroll immediately, switch plans to keep your benefits, or provide personal information before a deadline. Verify any claim through an official channel before making a decision.

  Red Flags

  Be especially cautious if an unexpected caller or text message:

  • Claims you must get a new Medicare card and asks for payment or personal information.
  • Promises free medical equipment in exchange for your Medicare number.
  • Requests your Social Security number, bank details, or Medicare information without you initiating contact.
  • Threatens to cancel your benefits unless you act immediately.
  • Pressures you to switch plans or claims you will lose benefits if you do not enroll through them.
  • Directs you to an unfamiliar website or asks you to click a link to verify your identity.

  Caller ID is not proof of authenticity. Scammers can spoof phone numbers to make a call appear to come from a government office or legitimate organization.

  Medicare does not unexpectedly call or text to ask for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank account details. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact Medicare yourself using its published number.

  Protect Your Information Before the Scammers Get It

  If you have already shared information with a suspicious caller, do not assume nothing will happen. Contact Medicare and your health plan to report the incident and ask what steps to take. If you provided financial account information, contact your bank. If you suspect identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov for recovery guidance.

  You can also report suspected fraud to Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE and file a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

  Medicare open enrollment is an important opportunity to make informed decisions about your healthcare. It should not become an opportunity for criminals to take control of your identity.

  Scammers know when enrollment begins. They know which promises sound appealing, which deadlines create anxiety, and which questions can persuade someone to reveal sensitive information. They are counting on people to trust a convincing story before checking whether it is true.

  Don’t give them that chance. Review your coverage on your own terms, verify unexpected claims directly with Medicare, and never hand over personal information simply because a caller says it is necessary.

  When it comes to Medicare, the safest rule is to make the call yourself.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on October 14, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: health insurance ( 11 ), identity theft ( 137 ), medicare ( 23 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 )   

  Scammers Targeting Open Enrollment 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As open enrollment ramps up across the country, the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau is alerting consumers to a growing wave of fraudulent outreach targeting those updating Medicare or Healthcare.gov coverage. Although the warning originated in Wisconsin, the tactics being reported are not confined to any one state. Similar scams can occur nationwide whenever enrollment periods open and consumers are more likely to engage with unfamiliar contacts.

  The scheme typically begins with an unsolicited phone call or text message offering to assist with switching to a supposedly better or cheaper plan. The caller often insists that coverage is expiring or that immediate action is required. Once trust is gained, the individual is asked to confirm personal details such as a Medicare ID number or Social Security number. Some scammers go as far as verifying existing addresses to appear legitimate before advancing to sensitive questions.

  Reports show that these contacts can sound convincing. In some cases, the caller pretends to be checking on delivery of a new Medicare card. In other instances, text messages urge the recipient to call immediately to prevent cancellation of benefits. Once the conversation shifts toward payment requests or demands for account verification, the deception becomes clearer, although not always before harm occurs.

  What makes these scams particularly dangerous is what happens afterward. Stolen Medicare and Social Security numbers are not left unused. They can be employed to submit fraudulent medical claims in the victim’s name or redirect benefits without consent. In some cases, scammers initiate unauthorized plan changes that interfere with legitimate coverage. What begins as a brief interaction can lead to months of identity recovery, financial disputes, and corrections to medical records.

  The BBB emphasizes that legitimate assistance with plan enrollment is available through official channels only when the individual reaches out first. Licensed representatives for Healthcare.gov or Medicare are not permitted to charge for enrollment support and will not initiate contact unexpectedly. Any offer that relies on urgency, pressure, or promises of incentives in exchange for personal data should be seen as a serious warning sign.

  Even offers that appear generous, such as complimentary health screenings or gifts for switching plans, may be tactics designed to collect private information or filter out individuals based on health status. Some brokers try to identify only healthy applicants to manipulate their client pool, which is prohibited by Medicare rules.

  Consumers are encouraged to avoid clicking on links in suspicious messages or responding to unfamiliar communications about benefits. When in doubt, it is safest to visit Medicare.gov or Healthcare.gov directly rather than relying on third parties. Those who receive unexpected messages regarding employer-provided benefits should confirm legitimacy with their workplace before taking any action.

  Health care enrollment is already complex without the added risk of fraud. A cautious approach can prevent not only frustration but also long-term damage to personal identity, financial security, and access to care.

   
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  Greg Collier 9:00 am on November 28, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: AI ( 38 ), health insurance ( 11 ), identity theft ( 137 ), medicare ( 23 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 )   

  AI finds its way into Medicare scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  We are currently nearing the end of Medicare’s Open Enrollment period. This is the time of year when Medicare recipients can change their plan from the traditional Medicare coverage to a Medicare Advantage plan, or change back if they so desire. This is also the time of year when scammers specifically target Medicare eligible seniors with their scams.

  When it comes to scams, identity theft poses a significant risk to seniors, especially during Open Enrollment. Scammers often employ tactics such as impersonating government officials, adopting titles like ‘health care benefits advocate,’ to deceive victims. These fraudsters make enticing promises, assuring the victim of enrollment in equivalent or superior coverage at a reduced cost. To accomplish their scheme, the fraudulent agent requests the victim’s personal information, including their Medicare number.

  The stolen Medicare number becomes a tool for these scammers to commit Medicare fraud, involving unauthorized charges for procedures or items. This fraudulent activity has the potential to impact the victim’s benefits in the future. Additionally, scammers resort to high-pressure tactics, such as claiming that the victim’s benefits may expire if immediate information is not provided. In some cases, these deceptive calls may even display Medicare’s official phone number, adding an extra layer of trickery. It is crucial for seniors to be vigilant and cautious to protect themselves from falling victim to such identity theft scams during the Open Enrollment period.

  Though not strictly a scam, certain unscrupulous insurance brokers may exert undue pressure on seniors to switch to their company’s Medicare Advantage plan. While Medicare Advantage plans can offer advantages for some individuals, they may also have limitations that may not suit everyone’s needs. The decision to switch should be based on the individual’s personal healthcare requirements, yet some insurance agents may prioritize making a sale over the well-being of the patient.

  If contemplating a transition from Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan, it is essential to conduct thorough research on the potential benefits and drawbacks. Avoid succumbing to the tactics of salespersons, who may push for a decision that could lead to regret in the following year. Taking the time to make an informed decision ensures that the chosen healthcare plan aligns with individual needs and preferences.

  There is also another potential threat with this year’s Open Enrollment, and not surprisingly, it’s related to AI. Experts are warning that scammers could be using AI-generated voice programs to make scam phone calls sound more authentic. These calls could even be used to try to record a victim’s voice, which could then be used in other voice spoofing scams.

  It’s important to be cautious when receiving calls related to your Medicare plan. Legitimate Medicare plans typically contact their members if necessary, but if you ever feel uneasy during such calls, consider calling your insurance company’s official customer service number to verify the legitimacy of the communication.

  As a general rule, exercise caution about sharing your Medicare or Social Security number over the phone. Medicare and your insurance company already have your information on file and typically don’t need you to provide it again during unsolicited calls. This precaution helps protect you from potential scams or identity theft. Always prioritize your security and verify the authenticity of any calls before sharing sensitive information.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on October 31, 2022 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: elder fraud ( 7 ), elder scam ( 7 ), elderly ( 13 ), identity theft ( 137 ), medicare ( 23 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 ), seniors ( 11 )   

  It’s the season for more scams against seniors 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Senior citizens are often the targets of scams because of a perceived unfamiliarity with technology. This is a recurring theme throughout the year. However, until December 7th, seniors will be the target of even more scams. That’s because now is the open enrollment period for Medicare. Until December 7th, Medicare recipients will be able to decide if they want to stay with their current Medicare coverage or switch to a new insurer. Unfortunately, open enrollment is also open season for Medicare scammers.

  The most prevalent scam seniors will have to look out for are identity theft schemes. Scammers will call their senior victims, posing as either Medicare or some other insurer. The scammers will try to get their victims to give them their personal information by asking the victim to verify their identity. In some instances, scammers will try to get the victim’s personal information by promising them better benefits at a lower cost.

  It’s not just identity theft the scammers are after, either. Medicare fraud has been a growing problem for years. Medicare scammers could use their victim’s Medicare information to file for fraudulent benefits. Not only does this make Medicare more expensive, but could also limit a recipient’s benefits in the future.

  Please keep in mind that Medicare or some other insurer is probably not calling you. Even if the number shows up on your phone as Medicare, the odds are the call isn’t from them. Phone numbers can be easily spoofed to make the call appear like it’s coming from Medicare.

  In the majority of cases, if you feel the need to change your coverage, you need to call Medicare or your insurer. If someone calls you claiming to be from Medicare during open enrollment, you can hang up the call. You are not required to take any calls that appear to be from Medicare. Then call Medicare or your insurer from the number on the back of your insurance card.

  And always remember to never give your Medicare or insurance ID number to any strangers over the phone.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on November 4, 2021 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 220 ), medicare ( 23 ), new medicare card ( 8 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 )   

  New Medicare card scam is back 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Currently, we are in the middle of Medicare’s open enrollment period. This is the time of year when Medicare recipients can either stay with their current coverage or seek out a new plan. As we have previously mentioned, open enrollment is also open season for Medicare scammers. This is the time of year when many scammers use Medicare’s open enrollment as an opportunity to try to steal their victims’ Medicare information. The stolen information can then be used to file fraudulent Medicare claims.

  One of the ways scammers get this information is to pose as Medicare and call people to tell them they’re getting a new Medicare card. The scammers will then ask the victim to ‘verify’ their Medicare number and other information so they can issue a new card. A woman in Tennessee was approached by scammers over the phone and was told she was getting a new Medicare card that had a chip in it like a debit or credit card. The woman even asked if the caller was from Medicare or a third party, and the scammer claimed to be from Medicare. The woman knew this was a scam and gave the caller some phony information before hanging up on them.

  The main thing to keep in mind with Medicare scams is that unless you have an ongoing issue with your Medicare coverage and have spoken to an actual Medicare rep, Medicare will never call you. Any major communications that Medicare has with its recipients is done through the postal mail, that includes when new cards are to be issued. If someone calls you claiming to be from Medicare, hang up, even if the caller ID says they’re calling from Medicare. As we’ve known for some time, any phone number can be spoofed.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on October 14, 2021 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: healthcare ( 50 ), identity theft ( 137 ), medicare ( 23 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 )   

  Medicare open enrollment brings out scammers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  This Friday, October 15th 2021, starts the period known as Open Enrollment for all Medicare recipients. Until December 7th, Medicare recipients will be able to decide if they want to stay with their current Medicare coverage or switch to a new insurer. With so many options to choose from and so many changes made each year, it can be difficult for seniors to keep up with all the necessary policies and paperwork each year. Unfortunately, Open Enrollment is also open season for Medicare scammers and fraudsters. Not only are there scams to go along with Open Enrollment, but some bad business practices as well.

  While not technically a scam, some less than reputable insurance brokers will try to pressure seniors into switching to their company’s Medicare Advantage plan. While Advantage plans can be beneficial to some, they can also be limiting to others. It all depends on the patient’s personal needs, but some insurance agents are just looking for the sale. If you’re thinking about switching from Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan, please take the time to research the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. Don’t let some salesman pressure you into a decision that you may regret having for the following year.

  As far as scams go, identity theft is often the biggest threat seniors face during Open Enrollment. Scammers will call their victims posing as being from the government with an official-sounding title like ‘health care benefits advocate’, or something along those lines. The victim will be promised that they’ll be signed up for the same or better coverage at a lower price. The phony agent will ask for all the victim’s personal information, including their Medicare number. Medicare fraudsters will then use the stolen number to charge Medicare with fraudulent procedures or items which could affect the victim’s benefits down the line. These scammers will also use high-pressure tactics to get the victim’s information, like telling the victim their benefits could expire if they don’t give their information right now. The calls can even appear as they’re coming from Medicare’s official phone number.

  If you’re already enrolled in Medicare, your Medicare plan will only call you if you’re already a member of that plan. If you feel uncomfortable taking the call, you can always call your insurance company’s customer service number on the back of your insurance card.

   
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  Greg Collier 8:00 am on October 17, 2019 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: healthcare ( 50 ), medicare ( 23 ), open enrollment, Scams ( 1,736 )   

  Medicare fraudsters target seniors during Open Enrollment 

  

  The Open Enrollment period for Medicare subscribers just opened. This is the time of year where Medicare recipients select their health insurance plans for the next benefit year. This process can be extremely stressful and confusing even for insurance industry veterans. With so many options to choose from and so many changes made each year, it can be difficult for seniors to keep up with all the necessary policies and paperwork each year. So it should come as no surprise that fraudsters will be plentiful during the Open Enrollment period.

  Once again the Better Business Bureau is warning Medicare recipients of the various scams that go around this time of year. One of these scams takes the form of receiving a phone call offering you a free back or knee brace, except you’ll have to give up a lot of personal information to receive the item. Another common scam is someone calling you and asking for your Medicare number then telling you that there is a problem with your benefits or some form of fraud has been committed with your coverage. Either way, the scammers will try to tell you that you’re in danger of losing your benefits. The calls can even appear as they’re coming from Medicare’s official phone number.

  [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGaPmOce188%5D

  Your Medicare plan will only call you if you’re already a member of that plan. If you feel uncomfortable taking the call, you can always call your insurance company’s customer service number back. As a general rule of thumb, you should never give your Medicare or Social Security number to anyone over the phone. Medicare and your insurance company already have your information and don’t need you to repeat it.