Medicare is one of the most trusted programs in the U.S., offering healthcare coverage to millions of older Americans. Unfortunately, that trust also makes it one of the **biggest targets for scammers**. Each year, Medicare scams cost taxpayers billions of dollars and leave seniors vulnerable to stolen identities, fraudulent medical charges, and even loss of benefits.

In this article, we’ll explore **7 common Medicare scams**, how they work, and what you can do to stay safe.

1. The Fake Medicare Card Upgrade Scam

One of the most common schemes involves fraudsters calling seniors and claiming:

• “Your Medicare card needs to be updated.”
• “You’ll lose coverage unless you confirm your Social Security number.”
• “There’s a small processing fee for the new card.”

This scam preys on fear of losing benefits, and once the scammer gets your personal or financial info, they can drain your bank accounts or steal your identity.

How to Spot It: Medicare **never** asks for money or personal details over the phone for new cards. If someone claims otherwise, it’s a scam.

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2. The “Free Medical Equipment” Scam

Scammers promise “free” wheelchairs, braces, or back supports covered by Medicare. Victims are asked for their Medicare number and mailing address. The scammer then **bills Medicare for fake or overpriced equipment**, often sending low-quality items or nothing at all.

How to Spot It: If you didn’t ask for medical equipment and someone offers it unsolicited, it’s fraud. Always check with your doctor before accepting anything.

3. The COVID-19 Testing Scam

During the pandemic, criminals cashed in by offering fake Medicare-covered COVID-19 tests. Victims who gave their Medicare info not only lost money, but also had fraudulent charges on their accounts. Even today, scammers still use “health emergencies” as a cover.

How to Spot It: Medicare covers certain tests, but you only get them from official providers, not strangers calling or texting you.

4. The Genetic Testing Scam

This scam has grown quickly in recent years. Fraudsters pitch “free DNA or cancer screening tests” supposedly covered by Medicare. Victims provide their Medicare number and a cheek swab. In reality, no real test is conducted—scammers simply **bill Medicare for thousands of dollars in bogus lab work**.

How to Spot It: If genetic testing wasn’t ordered by your doctor, it’s a scam.

5. The Imposter Phone Call

Scammers often impersonate:

• Medicare representatives
• Social Security officials
• Insurance agents

They demand personal info, claiming “urgent account issues.” Many seniors comply because the callers sound professional and authoritative.

How to Spot It: Medicare will never threaten to cancel benefits, demand payment, or ask for financial info by phone.

6. The Fake Health Plan Enrollment Scam

Every fall, Medicare’s open enrollment period becomes a goldmine for scammers. They pose as insurance agents, offering fake Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plans. Victims hand over sensitive data, thinking they’re signing up for coverage—when in fact, they’re signing their info away.

How to Spot It: Always verify enrollment changes directly at **Medicare.gov** or through official channels, not by clicking random links or responding to cold calls.

7. The Medical Identity Theft Scam

Some scams don’t involve money upfront. Instead, criminals **steal your Medicare number** to bill for fraudulent medical services. Victims might not even realize it until they receive strange bills or are denied legitimate services because their benefits were “already used.”

How to Spot It: Review your **Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs)** or **Explanation of Benefits (EOBs)** carefully. If you see services you didn’t receive, report them immediately.

How to Protect Yourself from Medicare Scams

1. **Guard Your Medicare Card Like a Credit Card** – Never share your Medicare number unless it’s with your doctor or trusted provider.
2. **Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers** – If someone calls, emails, or texts you about free services, hang up or delete it.
3. **Check Your Statements** – Regularly review your MSNs and EOBs for unusual charges.
4. **Report Suspicious Activity** – Call **1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)** or the **Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)**.
5. **Educate Family and Friends** – Many seniors fall victim because they don’t recognize the tricks. Share this knowledge widely.

👉 *Want to train yourself to spot scams in real time?* *Click Here to Play the Game*

Final Thoughts

Medicare scams are dangerous because they prey on seniors’ trust in a vital program. While scammers are creative and persistent, **awareness is the most powerful defense**. By understanding how these scams work, you can protect your identity, your finances, and your healthcare benefits.

At **GroSecure**, we’re committed to helping people of all ages fight back against scams through interactive tools, education, and community support. Together, we can stop these schemes before they succeed.

Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay safe.