Experts Warn of Medicare Scams During Open Enrollment Period
As Medicare open enrollment begins on October 15, experts are issuing warnings about an increase in scam calls targeting beneficiaries. Karen Reeves of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) reports that many individuals receive suspicious calls during this period. Scammers often claim beneficiaries need a new Medicare card, or they promise improved coverage, lower costs, or free medical equipment. Reeves advises individuals to contact Medicare directly to verify the legitimacy of any offers. She also emphasizes that beneficiaries are not obligated to change their plans simply because open enrollment has started. Medicare already possesses beneficiaries' information and will not request it during unsolicited calls. Jamie Harding, communications director for AARP Alabama, adds that scammers also use text messages to solicit personal details such as Medicare, Social Security, or bank account information. Harding clarifies that Medicare does not initiate calls or texts to ask for personal details.
