TLDR
Medicare and health insurance phone scams are the #5 most reported scam category in FTC data. ScamVerify™ found 113,158 complaints from 49,560 unique phone numbers, with a 67% robocall rate. These scams impersonate Medicare, insurance companies, and pharmacies to steal your Medicare ID, Social Security number, and financial information.
The Scale of Medicare Phone Scams
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| FTC complaints | 113,158 |
| Unique scam numbers | 49,560 |
| Robocall percentage | 67% |
| Human-operated | 33% |
Two numbers in our database are 100% automated medical scam lines:
- (352) 812-0519 - 74 complaints, all about medical and prescription scams
- (540) 621-5576 - 66 complaints, all about medical and prescription scams
These pure robocallers blast pre-recorded messages to thousands of numbers per day.
Common Medicare Scam Scripts
Script 1: The New Medicare Card
"This is Medicare calling. We are issuing new Medicare cards with updated security features. To receive your new card, we need to verify your Medicare number and Social Security number."
Reality: Medicare does not call to verify your number. They already have it.
Script 2: The Free Medical Equipment
"You qualify for a free back brace / knee brace / diabetic supplies at no cost to you through Medicare. Press 1 to claim your benefit."
Reality: These operations bill Medicare fraudulently for equipment you never requested. You may receive a cheap brace, but your Medicare account gets charged for expensive equipment.
Script 3: The Insurance Plan Upgrade
"Open enrollment has started. You may qualify for additional benefits including dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage at no extra cost. Press 1 to speak with a licensed agent."
Reality: These calls harvest your information to switch you to a plan that pays the scammer a commission, often a plan worse than your current coverage.
Script 4: The Prescription Discount
"We can reduce your prescription costs by up to 80%. Our pharmacy program is approved by Medicare. Press 1 to enroll."
Reality: These operations collect your Medicare ID and personal information for identity theft or fraudulent billing.
The Seasonal Pattern
Medicare scams spike during specific periods:
| Period | Event | Scam Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 15 - Dec 7 | Medicare Open Enrollment | Peak scam calls |
| Jan 1 - Mar 31 | Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment | High activity |
| Year-round | "New card" and equipment scams | Steady baseline |
During open enrollment, scammers capitalize on the fact that legitimate Medicare communications increase, making their calls blend in.
How Real Medicare Contacts You
| Method | Real Medicare | Scam |
|---|---|---|
| First contact | Mail or Medicare.gov | Phone call |
| Asks for Medicare number | Never by phone (they have it) | Always |
| Asks for SSN | Never by phone | Common |
| Asks for bank info | Never unsolicited | Common |
| Threatens benefit loss | Never by phone | Common |
| Calls during enrollment | Only if you requested it | Unsolicited |
What to Do If You Receive a Medicare Scam Call
- Hang up. Do not press any buttons.
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) directly if you have concerns about your coverage
- Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Report to Medicare fraud hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477)
- Check the number on ScamVerify
What to Do If You Shared Your Medicare Number
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE immediately to report the compromise
- Monitor your Medicare Summary Notices for services you did not receive
- Review your account on Medicare.gov
- Place a fraud alert on your credit reports if you also shared your SSN
- Consider requesting a new Medicare number through Social Security
FAQ
Can someone use my Medicare number to steal my identity?
Yes. Your Medicare number can be used to file fraudulent claims, obtain medical services under your identity, and access other personal information. Unauthorized medical claims on your record can also affect your own medical care by introducing incorrect diagnoses or allergies.
How do I know if my Medicare number has been compromised?
Review your Medicare Summary Notices (MSN) carefully. Look for services, equipment, or providers you do not recognize. You can also check your claims online at Medicare.gov. If you find unfamiliar charges, call 1-800-MEDICARE immediately.
Are all calls about Medicare plans scams?
Not all, but be cautious. Licensed insurance agents may call during open enrollment if you previously requested information. However, they should identify themselves by name and license number. They should never ask for your Medicare number or SSN to "verify eligibility" before discussing plans.
