What's the best way for seniors to protect themselves from Medicare-related scams?

Question

Jackson Cassibry · Accepted Answer

Protect your information as there are many scams out there today, unfortunately.  Verify Brokers/Agents licensing on the particular state those agents/brokers are in

Gary Church · Answer

Research and avoid calls about Medicare plans from so-called agents. Recommend meeting a licensed Medicare agent who can understand your needs. Ask a friend who's on Medicare if they have an agent that helped them with their Medicare plan. If you're not sure, call Medicare.

Answered by Gary Church on September 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX

Answered by Gary Church Medicare Insurance Agent

Mike Alexander · Answer

NEVER ANSWER TELEMARKING CALLS, HANG UP.
NEVER GIVE OUT ANY PERSONNAL INFO, IF YOU DONT  KNOW WHO THE PERSON IS.
ALWAYS REPORT ANY HIGH PRESSURE TACTICS TO MEDICARE

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. So the question is, what's the best way for seniors to protect themselves from Medicare-related scams? I've said this a hundred times already. Find an independent Medicare broker that you think you can trust. Go to them for advice, have them help you with any Medicare-related questions. If somebody calls you out of the blue, if they call and say they're from Medicare, I wouldn't even talk to them. Talk to your broker, tell them what's going on. They can advise you on the best way to go. If there are any issues, they can help you handle it. That's what we get paid for, helping people with that.

Mark Bilgere · Answer

Don't answer any unsolicited call about Medicare. Do n other resond to T.V. or internet ads that aren't local. Do not talk to your PDP carrier about switching to an Advantage plan. Find a local broker or use a person that was referred by someone you trust.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on November 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent

Daniel Brechin · Answer

Do not,  speak to anyone who calls you that you have not given prior permission.
I am 70 years old and have worked in Medicare since 1996.   Never has it been ok for an agent to contact without your permission.

Danny Brechin
Contact me.

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

Get help from a licensed agent and broker with time in grade, experience. You can ask people who have already gone on Medicare who they used or use Agents Hub to find us. I’m licensed in 13 states.

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown on May 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

William Lawler · Answer

The best way for seniors to protect themselves against Medicare scams is to not answer their phone if they don’t recognize the number. Unsolicited calling to seniors about Medicare is illegal. Don’t ever give out information especially your Social Security or Medicare number to random people over the phone.

Answered by John Messler on September 30, 2025

Agent Licensed in NH, ME, NC, OH, PA & TX

Answered by John Messler Medicare Insurance Agent

Voss Speros · Answer

Got a call today. Someone asked me how do I avoid Medicare scams? So what's the best way for seniors to avoid Medicare scams? That's a good general question. The best way is to put your phone on the Do Not Call list. Agents aren't allowed to call you unless we get permission. So if you fill something out and send it in, that's permission to discuss something. If you fill something out online, they can show proof. On our website, there's a form that says if you fill this out, we're going to get in touch with you. But we are not allowed to call people.

A lot of those call centers are calling people and then transferring over to an agent. So how do you get off of those lists? They're just buying those lists and doing that. The best way to do it is ask for their national producer number and get their full name. "Hey, what's your full name?" "Yeah, what's your full name?" Give the full name and the national producer number. By law, we have to give that if asked. We should just give it anyways. But always, if asked, we give it.

Then ask what company they are with. Usually, they'll hang up right away because they don't want to deal with that. You know more than them. If it's an agent calling you and he gives it to you, it's probably because you gave them permission. But probably not. Take that information down. But mostly, most will just hang up right away. So you ask for the national producer number to say, "Oh, I'm not the agent, but I am going to connect you to an agent."

I know you called me. Are you going to connect me to an agent? Please, yes, connect me to that agent. That agent gets on and asks you a question. You say, "What's your national producer number?" Boom, click, hang up. Off the list. Then they're going to let the call center know not to call you back. Keep that in mind for any one moment or any time during the year. If you give me those spam calls, it doesn't matter what insurance they try to offer. Just ask for the producer number and their full name, and boom, they'll hang up.

So that's the best way to avoid scams. I mean, not really avoid scams, but kind of take your name off of scams. But never give your Medicare number out unless you call somebody or you're working with a broker. Don't just give it out over the phone willy-nilly. If you have any questions, give us a call. We're more than happy to send a broker out to help assist with any of your Medicare concerns. Have a good day.

Charise Karjala · Answer

The question is, what is the best way for seniors to avoid falling prey to a Medicare scam? It's a difficult question because, well, those of us that live in this community know how important it is to be cautious. My first answer is to make sure that you can walk into somebody's office and assess their credibility by looking at their designations, meeting their secretary, and perhaps even knowing who they are in your community. There are many of us that do community-based Medicare sales. We work in this community, we live in this community, and what I absolutely detest is what is happening with large organizations like United Health Care going towards a call center sale system, which does not serve seniors in the least bit. I am deeply, deeply disappointed by that strategy.

I, amongst many other highly sought-after Medicare agents that work in the industry in our communities, have an office, support staff, and credentials. We have master's degrees, planning degrees, undergraduate degrees in finance, and licenses in many different capacities. We may be life underwriters, we may be financial planners, but these are the people you want to work with. These are the people that are available to work with you for the same price as some schmuck that's going to come out and sell you a plan by putting high-pressure sales on you to come to your home when you don't want them there.

So this person should at least be willing to spend 15 minutes on the phone without asking too many questions or making any premature closes. They should be willing to have a conversation with you just for the sake of having a conversation and then let you call them back if you'd like or if you would like to set a date in the future, maybe a couple weeks in the future. They should at least be willing to do something for you for free without trying to demand your Social Security information and your Medicare ID number. They may need that information to verify your benefits, of course, to see what kind of options may be available to you.

But I think the first thing to do is never do a close on the first sale. The second item is do not believe what you see on the commercials on television, ever. These people are lying to you. They are flat-out lying. There's a little bit of truth on a national basis, but in most communities, they don't have those policies available to you, especially when it involves free food. That's what Medicare is for. Medicaid is for.

Tony Capraro III · Answer

Work with an Agent who works for a Reputable Company like State Farm!  :) We help our clients every day-make the right decisions for them!

Lynn C Shurtleff · Answer

Do not talk to anyone cold calling you about your Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid or any benefits. Either do not answer the phone or hand up, do not be polite to these people because they are breaking the law by calling you unless you have given written prior permission to call you. Never call those phone numbers on the TV, on your phone or on the internet. These ads are designed to trick you and bait you to call.

Answered by Lynn C Shurtleff on August 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AR, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Lynn C Shurtleff Medicare Insurance Agent

Christy Jones · Answer

Medicare related scams are everywhere! Do not reply to emails! Do not click on advertisements! Do not reply to text messages! Do not answer phone calls! If it’s important (and not a scam), they will leave a message. When you reply to any of these potential/fraudulent sales tactics, you are giving the scammer permission to sell your information or call you continuously. Find a trusted Broker in your area that you can call (and they will answer). There are so many scams telling you can ‘get the benefits you deserve’, or pretending to be your bank or something that you supposedly purchased online. It’s unfortunate that there are so many scams that are aimed at all ages. My advice is to not answer/reply/ or click on things that make you think you are missing out or getting something for $0 cost. I hope this helps!:-)

Answered by Christy Jones on September 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Christy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Gregg Matheny · Answer

I am very biased!!, if my clients receive a letter or a phone call that seems sketchy at all I strongly encourage them to call me, text me, or take a picture of the letter that they received and send it to me. If seniors don’t want to reach out to an agent, Then they should keep in mind that they can always contact Medicare or Social Security to verify any request for info.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Lovell · Answer

Google the scam first to see if its valid.  Contact local agents in your area for their opinions as well.

Lauren Fodde · Answer

The best way for seniors to protect themselves from Medicare-related scams is by staying alert and following a few simple habits:

Guard your Medicare number like a credit card. Only share it with trusted providers or your licensed agent.

Be cautious of unsolicited calls or door-to-door visits. Medicare will never call out of the blue to sell you something.

Read the fine print. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Check with a trusted source. Before signing anything, talk to a licensed agent or call 1-800-MEDICARE to verify.

Monitor your statements. Review your Medicare Summary Notices or Explanation of Benefits for charges you don’t recognize.

In short: don’t rush, ask questions, and lean on trusted professionals.

Tasha Riggs · Answer

Meet an agent at their office.   Look at their google reviews.  Get references. 
Do not work with a person who randomly calls you. No one is legally allowed to call you unless you give them your consent.

Nick Mangini · Answer

You need to speak to a real licensed agent who has the experience and have positive google reviews. You should always make sure your agent has an active license to sell and make sure you deal with an agent who provides their cellphone number so you get right back to them. The call centers are the bad ones!

Answered by Nick Mangini on August 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 32 other states

Answered by Nick Mangini Medicare Insurance Agent

Kerwyn Jones · Answer

Verify permission to contact was granted. Ask for permission card or date and time permission was given

Luke Rhoads · Answer

I would recommend finding a trusted local agent that has all the carriers available in your area.  Then don't make any changes to your coverage until you run it by your agent.

James Carlson · Answer

Deal with a qualified and verified agent like Medicare Hub agents.  Remind clients that at age 65 many companies will be trying to earn their business.  Be careful.

Robert Lukasik · Answer

Do not give personal information to someone you do not know over the phone. Do not buy your Medicare plan, benefits or anything over the phone. Ultimately you do not know who you are talking to or where your information ends up.

Answered by Robert Lukasik on September 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in NY, FL & PA

Answered by Robert Lukasik Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Cunningham · Answer

To avoid scams it is best to call the carrier directly or speak with a licensed insurance agent authorized to sell Medicare products.

Esther Miller · Answer

One thing you should know as an eligible Medicare member is that no Medicare agent will contact you without your permission. First. You give your permission by signing up to ask for more information, or for reaching out on a medicare site. 

The medicare site, medicare.gov and 1-800 medicare will give you good information about medicare and your benefits and answer questions that you may have. 

All medicare insurance agents are required to have a license, and you can look up that license under the state insurance commissioner's guide. If the person you're talking to does not have a medicare insurance license, then it's probably a scam.

Sandy Johnson · Answer

To avoid the potential of getting scammed, I suggest that you contact a local licensed Healthcare Agent. Therefore, you have a point of contact and face to face contact if needed. The agent can give you up to date information on Medicare plans and changes as they take affect.

Answered by Sandy Johnson on April 20, 2026

Broker Licensed in LA, AL, AR & 11 other states

Answered by Sandy Johnson Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Zaruba · Answer

It is a good practice to find a Medicare sales agent from a known Agency in your area to help guide you through the process. They will want to give you the best service possible as normally they get paid the same no matter which plan you choose. You don't pay an agent as they only receive their compensation from the Medicare plan, they enroll you into. Medicare sales agents need to certify annually and are strictly disciplined by the rules and ethics of the agency they are working with.

Answered by Mark Zaruba on March 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in WI & IA

Answered by Mark Zaruba Medicare Insurance Agent

Edward Givens · Answer

Protect Your Medicare Number

Treat it like a credit card number—never share it with anyone except trusted providers, pharmacists, or your plan.

Medicare will never call to ask for your number or demand payment.

2. Watch for Red Flags

Scammers may offer “free” medical equipment, gift cards, or health screenings in exchange for your Medicare info.

Beware of unsolicited calls, texts, or emails that pressure you to act quickly.

3. Review Your Medicare Statements

Regularly check your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or plan’s Explanation of Benefits (EOB).

Look for services or prescriptions you didn’t receive—report anything suspicious immediately.

4. Use Trusted Resources

Call 1-800-MEDICARE directly if you get a questionable call or mailing.

Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free, unbiased guidance.

Use the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), which specializes in fraud prevention and reporting.

5. Stay Informed & Connected

Sign up for Medicare’s official email updates at Medicare.gov.

Share information with family or a trusted advocate so more than one set of eyes can catch unusual activity.

6. Take Preventive Steps

Keep copies of your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and plan documents in a secure place.

Use a “Prevent Consent” wallet card (like ROSE promotes) to remind yourself never to sign or say “yes” to unexpected offers on the spot.

Bottom line: If something sounds too good to be true—or if you feel pressured—pause, hang up, and verify with Medicare or your agent of record before taking any action.

Jake Purvis - CMIP · Answer

The best protection is to STOP ANSWERING CALLS from unknown numbers and never share your Medicare number or personal information with someone who contacts you unexpectedly. Medicare will never call you! Be cautious of offers that sound urgent or too good to be true, and when in doubt, check with a trusted Medicare agent before making any changes.

Answered by Jake Purvis - CMIP on February 9, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, GA & TX

Answered by Jake Purvis - CMIP Medicare Insurance Agent

Brenda Trejos · Answer

Unfortunately these scams are prevalent and getting worse!  Its advisable to be very careful when a person or phone # calls you that you are not familiar with.  Be cautious and NEVER give them any of your personal information.   I recommend calling your Agent/Broker or calling the Insurance Company directly from the # that you have, not one they give you.  Your Agent can help you and/or clarify information.  
One BIG scam is commercials or calls offering more benefits than you qualify for because you are not receiving aid, but they do not care nor explain this.

Jaime Valadez · Answer

Connect with trusted agents that are local. Meet at trusted places like business offices ,doctors office etc. Try not to give out alot of personal information online or over the phone if not really needed.

Answered by Jaime Valadez on February 16, 2026

Broker Licensed in IL & IN

Answered by Jaime Valadez Medicare Insurance Agent

Brianna Henward · Answer

The best way to protect yourself from Medicare related scams is a lot more simple than it seems. All you have to do is work closely with an in person Medicare broker that works in best interest. Once you have that anytime you get mail or calls or texts or anything related to Medicare you call or text him/her. Relationships with trustworthy people are how you avoid scams in the modern era.

Answered by Robert Rowe on May 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in MI

Answered by Robert Rowe Medicare Insurance Agent

Tiffany Gladwell · Answer

Always Contact Your Agent if you have questions.  Dont make a move or change without consulting your agent. 

Another way for seniors to be protected against Medicare scams is to guard their Medicare number like a credit card, never share personal info with unsolicited callers, hang up on high-pressure tactics for "free" offers, verify all calls using official numbers (like the number in the back of their card), and regularly review Medicare statements for errors, and also reporting anything suspicious to the NC Senior Medicare Patrol or Medicare directly. 

Again, contact your agent, they are available to help you free of charge

Frank Souk · Answer

Be careful when fielding phone calls from individuals trying to gather sensitive information form you such as your Medicare Number and Social Security number.

Hank Ellis · Answer

Never give anyone your personal information that you didn't inquire about directly. That would include your bank information and social security number.

Teresa Cole · Answer

Be careful with who you are giving all your information to over the phone.  If you did not ask for a call be careful about giving all your information to a stranger.

Steven Bleicher · Answer

As a senior myself, I frankly don't answer my phone if it's an unrecognizable phone number since Medicare scams are more rampant on a phone call, along with the Internet. Remember that your bank will NEVER call you on the phone if you are ever scammed since they reach out to you via an email. Moreover, I'll also use my face as a means for ensuring that I am entering my commonly used websites perfectly. It's this double-verification process that will work every time. All you need to do is: A) using your phone's camera, shoot the online barcode to set up the process, B) hit the word “continue” and it automatically knows that it is you! Ergo: a new 2-step verification process and no scam!!

Answered by Steven Bleicher on May 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Jim Tretola · Answer

Only deal with people you know and trust and NEVER give out your Medicare number to a stranger on the phone.

Priscilla Ramos · Answer

Here’s a very simple way to explain it:
Don’t give your Medicare number to anyone who calls you
Hang up on random calls about Medicare
Be careful with “free” offers, they’re often scams
Only talk to people you trust (like your agent)
Check your statements for anything you don’t recognize
Easy rule: If you didn’t call them first, don’t share your information

Frank Carta · Answer

The best way to avoid scams is talk to an agent who is advertising on the Medicare Agents Hub.  A scammer would be foolish to post his picture on an ad and ask for a phone call.

Melanie Blackston · Answer

Do not give out any personal information and do not even confirm your information. Never say yes to any question. Call your local broker for their assistance to make sure you stay safe and not scammed.

Answered by Melanie Blackston on December 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, GA & NC

Answered by Melanie Blackston Medicare Insurance Agent

Juliette Chihade · Answer

Protect your Medicare card. Treat your Medicare card like a credit card. Never give your Medicare number to anyone who calls, texts, or emails you unexpectedly.

Verify Before You Trust

If someone claims to be from Medicare, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE directly
Only discuss your Medicare with your doctor, official insurance agents you contacted yourself, or verified Medicare representatives
Check your Medicare Summary Notice regularly for services you didn't receive

Red Flags to Watch For

High-pressure tactics or creating urgency
Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
Anyone asking for banking information to "process a refund"

Contact me for more questions.

Abigail Turner · Answer

First and foremost, don't answer your phone for ANY phone number you don't know or have stored in your contacts. I realize it could be a doctor's office but they will leave a message with a call back number. When you answer your phone, it tells the scammers they have a good number and they will continue to "work" it with more and different scams.

Answered by Abigail Turner on July 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in KS, AR, AZ & 14 other states

Answered by Abigail Turner Medicare Insurance Agent

Frank Woerner · Answer

1. Ideally work with a local Medicare insurance agent. Someone you feel is trusted.
2. Unless you recently requested information and gave your phone number, be guarded on a random call.
3. Never provide Medicare number ID over the phone.

Celeste McGrath · Answer

My advise to my clients is simple. Get a trusted Medicare Specialist Agent that you can call and ask questions. Any time you answer the phone and someone mentions Medicare, hang up and call your agent.

Answered by Celeste McGrath on April 6, 2026

Broker Licensed in GA, FL, NC & SC

Answered by Celeste McGrath Medicare Insurance Agent

Brianna Douros · Answer

Hey y'all, it's Brianna, your favorite life and health insurance agent, owner of Be Real Insured, bringing you real solutions. Today we're gonna discuss Medicare fraudulent activity. This is something that has been going on for quite some time, but it's even gotten worse here within the last few years. One important thing for you to keep in mind is that Medicare will never call you. They will never contact you asking for your MBI number. Okay, these people have been getting really slick, and one of the ways that they've been gathering information is by saying that they need to verify you and requesting your MBI or your Medicare number in order to verify you. So it's very important that you do not give any information out over the phone. Be very leery of anyone contacting you and calling you saying they are with Medicare or are Medicare. There's a lot of fraudulent activity where they are billing Medicare for services that you're not even using or even for items like catheters and such that you aren't even using. So it's definitely something to keep in mind and be very careful about the information that you're giving over the telephone. If you do have any questions, you can contact a local brokerage in your area, myself, or even contact 1-800-MEDICARE. Okay, so I hope that helps you guys. If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to reach out to me, and until next time, y'all keep it real.

Daintee Hurst Dietz · Answer

Deal with a trusted agent. Report unsolicited calls and enroll in do not call list. Lastly NEVER give out your information for any reason

Lenora Sikkenga · Answer

The best way is to contact a local licensed agent or broker that sells Medicare advantage plans. They will know what plans are available in your area and be able to see what plans fit your needs the best. Do not talk to anyone that calls you. Professional agents do not cold call.

Answered by Lenora Sikkenga on January 12, 2026

Broker Licensed in NV

Answered by Lenora Sikkenga Medicare Insurance Agent

Christopher Garcia · Answer

You can stop a lot of scams by knowing one simple rule. Medicare and Social Security will never call you. They will send you letters on official letterhead. If you receive a phone call from someone asking you about your Medicare or Social Security benefits it is either a scam or someone trying to sell you something. Insurance brokers like myself are held to a very high standard and have very strict rules that govern when we can speak to a beneficiary about their benefits. Sales agency do not follow these rules have no business working in this industry. We are here to help, but you need to reach out to us if you want that help. Never give out your Medicare number or Social Security number over the phone to someone who called you. They may just be fishing for information. If you need help with your insurance or Social Security benefits, reach out directly to a licensed agent, call Medicare directly or call a Social Security advisor at your local social security office.

Answered by Christopher Garcia on July 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in NM, AZ, CO & TX

Answered by Christopher Garcia Medicare Insurance Agent

Harold Randolph · Answer

That’s easy!! 

1.) Educated yourself on all things Medicare and keep up with the constant changes and variations. 

2.) Get yourself a Broker who’s only loyalties lie to you.. the client. Not any corporation or business. A good, honest, trusted broker is invaluable.

Robert Helmkamp II · Answer

Most all Medicare-related scams are done through Email or Telephonically. If you receive a phone call or email from an unknown source and they state they are from Medicare, either stating new benefits you are eligible for or trying to discuss your current plan, ignore the calls or emails, do not respond to the emails or call back any numbers. Medicare will always reach out directly via mail if there is any issue with your Traditional Medicare. Unless the prospective Medicare client fills out a business reply card, requesting a broker or agent contact them, then any form of unsolicited contact with a Medicare Enrollee is deemed strictly illegal by the Center of Medicare Services. Never give out personal information like your Medicare ID or Medicare Plan ID Number unless you know this information will be given to a trusted source. While you may enroll in Medicare Advantage Plans Online, it is always highly suggested you speak with a licensed medicare agent or broker first.

Answered by Robert Helmkamp II on June 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Robert Helmkamp II Medicare Insurance Agent

Janet Cruz · Answer

1. Safeguard your Medicare Card
	•	Treat it like a credit card number.
	•	Never share it with anyone who contacts you unsolicited—even if they claim to be from Medicare.



2. Know Medicare Will Never Call or Visit You Unsolicited
	•	Medicare will not call to offer products, services, or to issue a new card.
	•	Hang up on calls claiming otherwise.


3. Don’t Trust Caller ID
	•	Scammers can “spoof” numbers to make it look like they’re calling from Medicare or your local area.


 4. Watch for Red Flags

Be suspicious if someone:
	•	Offers free medical equipment or services in exchange for your Medicare number.
	•	Asks for payment over the phone or through gift cards.
	•	Claims you need to “verify your identity” or that your benefits will be canceled.

 5. Check Your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs)
	•	Review them monthly or quarterly for unfamiliar charges.
	•	If something seems off, call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Gigliola Manrique · Answer

Do not make any decisions or provide any personal information without checking first with family members, insurance plan agents or brokers. Unfortunately it is a trend that keeps growing every year.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

guard their Medicare number like a credit card, never share personal information with unexpected callers, review Medicare statements regularly for suspicious charges, and report any suspicious activity to 1-800-MEDICARE

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on September 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Kramer · Answer

This is an easy one to answer! DO NOT call TV ads; DO NOT sign and return post cards to so-called Medicare agencies; DO NOT answer the phone to anyone who calls you saying they want to update you about your plan. No such updates exist! ONLY deal with your agent, no one else!!!

Answered by Andrew Kramer on October 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Boone · Answer

The best way to protect yourself is to only work with reputable agents in your area. You can find agents by doing a online search of agents and then checking with CMS or the state insurance department. In my opinion if an agent is reputable they will not be concerned about you doing your due diligence on them and making sure they have your best interests in hand.

Answered by Mark Boone on October 6, 2025

Agent Licensed in MN, FL, MI & NC, OH, SC & VA

Answered by Mark Boone Medicare Insurance Agent

Jennifer Kalbach · Answer

It is always a good practice to do business with local agents.  You can go to their office and sit down with them and to discuss your needs and they are members of the community just like you.

Antonio Rodriguez · Answer

Great question! The best way for seniors to protect themselves from Medicare-related scams is to keep a few things in mind:

• Medicare will never call you out of the blue to ask for your Medicare number or personal info.
• Don’t give your Medicare card number to anyone who contacts you first — only to doctors, pharmacies, or trusted licensed agents you know.
• Hang up on unsolicited calls offering “free” medical equipment, gift cards, or services. These are common scam tactics.
• Check your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) for charges you don’t recognize.
• If something feels off, call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE to confirm.

If you ever get a suspicious call or message, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to help confirm what’s legitimate and what’s not.

Cheryl Lyons · Answer

Question: What’s the best way for seniors to protect themselves from Medicare-related scams?

Seniors can protect themselves from Medicare scams by:

* Never giving their Medicare number to unsolicited callers.
* Being cautious of offers for “free” medical equipment or services.
* Reviewing Medicare statements regularly for unfamiliar charges.
* Working only with licensed Medicare agents or brokers.
* Reporting suspicious calls or activity to Medicare right away.

Remember: Medicare generally does not call beneficiaries unexpectedly to ask for personal or financial information.

Jeffrey Sodikoff · Answer

I RECOMMEND WORKING WITH A DEDICATED AGENT LIKE ME WHO HAS BEEN ASSISTING MY CLIENTS FOR OVER 35 YEARS. WE DO NOT CHARGE FOR CONSULTATIONS, AND THERE IS NEVER ANY OBLIGATION TO ENROLL WITH US. TOO MANY PEOPLE JUST GO ONLINE OR CALL THE INSURANCE COMPANIES CALL CENTERS. WHY NOT WORK WITH A TRUSTED ADVISOR AS YOU WOULD WITH YOUR ATTORNEY OR ACCOUNTANT? CONTACT ME.

Answered by Jeffrey Sodikoff on May 19, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Jeffrey Sodikoff Medicare Insurance Agent

Ken Banks · Answer

Your Healthcare company will never call you to update your plan. If you can't call the number back and get the same person be very cautious. Best rule is to stick with a one good agent as myself and never switch with everyone else throughout your Medicare journey.

Answered by Ken Banks on October 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, DC & 5 other states

Answered by Ken Banks Medicare Insurance Agent

James Wareheim · Answer

Try to avoid calling 800 numbers you see advertised on TV, mailers and print.  Find a trusted agent.  Usually one of your friends knows someone they work with.  Make sure you get copies of the plan details.  Have them check your doctors and prescriptions to make sure you don't have any surprises.

If it sounds too good it just may be.  Check the details.

John Messler · Answer

The best way for seniors to protect themselves against Medicare scams is to not answer their phone if they don’t recognize the number. Unsolicited calling to seniors about Medicare is illegal. Don’t ever give out information especially your Social Security or Medicare number to random people over the phone.

Answered by John Messler on September 30, 2025

Agent Licensed in NH, ME, NC, OH, PA & TX

Patrick Stinson · Answer

I would suggest getting to know an authorized and licensed independent agent that you can call or text any time you need information or have a question.

Raid Alemam · Answer

The best way is never give out their Medicare numbers or personal information to the unsolicited callers and contact Medicare to verify information. Also seniors can hang up for unknown Medicare callers and report such activity.

Answered by Raid Alemam on August 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, CA, CO & 7 other states

Answered by Raid Alemam Medicare Insurance Agent

Tim J Harris · Answer

HANG UP!

If you did not give someone permission to call you on the phone about Medicare, they are violating CMS regulations if they call.   In this day and age of AI, it is best to say nothing, just HANG UP.  Anything you say could be recorded and manipulated using AI.  

If you see a TV ad about some amazing Medicare benefit and are curious about it.  DO NOT call the 800 number on the TV.  Call your agent/broker and ask about it.  Your agent/broker is familiar with benefits and can help you.

Bottom line, find a local agent/broker you like and make that person your sole contact for all things Medicare.

Samantha Jones · Answer

Pressing click to everything you see about getting more money or food benefits online and actually speak to a local agent and someone that you can trust because you know they come from a reputable company

Answered by Samantha Jones on April 13, 2026

Agent Licensed in Ky, AL, AR & 29 other states

Answered by Samantha Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Ira Smith · Answer

Simply do not fall for request to call a toll free number with agents standing by.  Never give them personal information.  Always deal with a reliable preferably local source.

Robert Rowe · Answer

The best way to protect yourself from Medicare related scams is a lot more simple than it seems. All you have to do is work closely with an in person Medicare broker that works in best interest. Once you have that anytime you get mail or calls or texts or anything related to Medicare you call or text him/her. Relationships with trustworthy people are how you avoid scams in the modern era.

Answered by Robert Rowe on May 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in MI

Mark Davisson · Answer

Unsure of what a scam represents, one of the most important things a potential client can do is work with a broker who is appointed with several carriers, has been in business for a number of years, and asks questions related to what you currently have, what you like and do not like about your coverage, and what additional resources you are looking for.  Depending on the answers, your agent should be able to recommend either a Medicare Advantage plan if you have a SEP or an appropriate medicare supplement plan where the only differences between companies is the price you will pay on a monthly basis.

If you run into someone trying to recommend only one carrier without providing a reason, you are likely speaking with the wrong person.

Ana V. Magalhaes · Answer

Important - do not provide your Medicare number to anyone just by the asking. Be careful to not misplace your Medicare card.

Jamie Herrick · Answer

Another very good question.
Don’t answer the phone unless you know the number. If it’s legit, they will leave a message.
Never give your social security or banking information. And never send people money.

Korina Medrano · Answer

Talk to a local professional broker. Agents that represent all or many local plans can help guide you!

Annette Newman · Answer

The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)—a national volunteer-led program—recommends a three-step approach: Protect, Detect, and Report.

1. Protect: Guard Your Information
Treat your Medicare number like a credit card or your Social Security number.

The "No-Call" Rule: Medicare will never call you uninvited to ask for your Medicare number or Social Security number. If someone calls claiming to be from Medicare to offer you a "new plastic card" or "2026 benefits update," hang up immediately.

The Mail First Rule: Official Medicare communications almost always arrive by U.S. Mail first.

Avoid "Free" Offers: Be skeptical of anyone offering free medical equipment (like knee braces), genetic testing, or "wellness packages" in exchange for your Medicare number. These are often "kickback" schemes to bill Medicare for services you don't need.

2. Detect: Review Your Statements
Scammers often rely on the fact that many people don't read their paperwork.

Check your MSN/EOB: Every three months, you receive a Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your Advantage plan.

Look for "Phantom Billing": Look for charges for doctor visits you didn't attend, medical supplies you never received, or dates of service when you were at home.

Keep a Health Calendar: Jot down your doctor appointments and tests so you can easily cross-reference them with your statements later.

3. Report: Use Trusted Resources
If you suspect you’ve been targeted or see a suspicious charge, don't wait.

Call 1-800-MEDICARE: This is the primary line for reporting suspicious activity.

Contact your local SMP: The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) provides free, confidential help to seniors to help identify and report fraud. 

Slam the Scam: If you receive a call from someone posing as a Social Security or Medicare official, you can also report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General.

Kelly Anderson · Answer

The best way to protect yourself from Medicare-related scams is to treat your Medicare number like a credit card. Do not share with unexpected callers, or if you don’t feel comfortable with the situation you are in.

Answered by Kelly Anderson on April 8, 2026

Agent Licensed in MO, AK, AL & 45 other states

Answered by Kelly Anderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Monica Hughes · Answer

The best way to protect yourself against Medicare scams is to guard your Medicare number like a credit card, hanging up on unsolicited calls, and reviewing "Medicare Summary Notices" for fraudulent charges. Never give personal information to strangers, as Medicare never calls, texts, or visits homes uninvited to sell products or demand info.

Answered by Monica Hughes on April 27, 2026

Agent Licensed in LA, AL, AR & 16 other states

Answered by Monica Hughes Medicare Insurance Agent

Darko Bozic · Answer

Find a local agent and meet face to face if you can. Seniors get bombarded with phone calls and there is sinply no way to know who's calling you. Never give out your personal information to unknown people calling you. There is no downside to talking to a local agent/broker and there are many upsides. It doesn't cost you anything and they will know your market better than someone calling from another state or country.

Rosanne Thompson · Answer

I advise all my clients to let the person know that you have an agent. You can also ask for the National Producer Number and if they ask what it is hang up cause it is likely to be a scam.

Parris Brady · Answer

No one is supposed to be contacting you regarding Medicare without your permission. If you did not solicit the contact, I would recommend you treat every phone call from those attempting to discuss Medicare as a scam.

Jake Dalton · Answer

Don't call 1-800 numbers off tv/radio ads. 
Don't answer calls that you don't recognize the number.
Find a local, experienced and trusted agent to call with questions, to review mailers, and to guide with the important Medicare decisions. 

My clients bring by their mail for me to review because they are so inundated with mail that they are not sure what is legit, and what is not.

Donald Heath · Answer

Have a trusted Medicare professional to call or go to the www.medicare.gov website to look up info.  If you get an unsolicited call from someone wanting to talk to you about Medicare plans, ask them  for their name and state ins License number.  Since this is not allowed under Medicare rules, they will probably hang up real fast.  The penalty for not having permission to call you could result in them losing their license.

Kelsey Harris · Answer

The best way for a senior to protect themselves from scams is to keep their personal information private. Do not enter online or tell anyone your Medicare number or any other personal information to anyone that you do not know and trust.

Rachel Tafoya · Answer

Always treat your medicare card like a credit card. Don't give out your medicare information to any that you don't know. Hang up on unsolicited calls.  It is against the law for medicare agents to call you unless they have your written permission.  Also, they are required by law to have a Scope of Appointment form signed by you giving you 48 hour notice before they can call and talk to you about Medicare Advantage plans and part D drug plans.

Brittany Garrison · Answer

The BEST way to protect yourself from Medicare Related scams in my opinion is to find a personal BROKER/AGENT to work with. Because unfortunately, these companies and call centers will continue to call and it really is often enticing and will have you questioning if you're truly getting all the best your plan or Medicare has to offer. I have found that my clients have a sense of peace in knowing that even IF it sounds good, that they have someone who can verify their benefits, whats available to them and if what they've been told is even legit. DO NOT get caught up in all the "potential benefits". It's typically just a plight to change your plan for them to receive a commission and you'll never hear from them again. Find a TRUSTED broker/agent that will call you before you call them throughout the year!

Debbie Smith · Answer

First of all when you respond to an ad you’re giving them permission to contact you. This creates a lot of calls and texts. I think the best way to protect yourself from scams is to have an agent that will help you. This other thing is to use Medicare.gov or call 1-800-Medicare for any questions or concerns.

Thomas Brady · Answer

I wouldn’t answer the phone especially if a scam alert is on there . Do not divulge any of your personal information, including name , date of birth, address, let alone Medicare ID number, or social security number. Don’t enroll over the phone. These frauds may enroll you over the phone without you knowing it , they may tell you your doctor in network, which I have seen happen, which was a lie . Call your doctors and ask if they accept the plan you are interested in . Try to deal with an agent or broker you know and trust. Those are my recommendations. Good luck.

Roxanne Robertson · Answer

Work with a Independent Broker that represents multiple carriers that you trust.  Don't give anyone else your information such as DOB, Medicare number, etc.