Key Takeaways

• Medicare-related scams in 2025 are becoming more advanced, often using real Medicare terminology to sound legitimate.

• Understanding the red flags of fraud calls, texts, emails, and even door-to-door visits can help you avoid handing over your personal information to criminals.

Why Seniors Are a Prime Target for Medicare Scams

Criminals see Medicare beneficiaries as high-value targets. Why? Because your personal information can unlock access to your health benefits, financial identity, and medical records. As technology and artificial intelligence advance, scam tactics are evolving—and so must your awareness.

Medicare scams often exploit:

• Your trust in government programs

• Confusion during Medicare enrollment periods

• Lack of updated information about current fraud schemes

These schemes can be particularly effective during high-activity periods, like the Medicare Open Enrollment period from October 15 to December 7.

The New Ways Scammers Are Reaching You

Phone Calls with Spoofed Caller IDs

In 2025, scam calls have become harder to spot. Many scammers now spoof the caller ID so it looks like the call is coming from “Medicare” or a trusted government agency. The voice on the other end often sounds professional, uses Medicare-specific language, and may even know your name or zip code.

Common tactics include:

• Claiming your Medicare card is expiring

• Offering a “free” health product or service

• Asking you to verify your Medicare number

AI-Generated Robocalls

Scammers are now using artificial intelligence to create lifelike robocalls. These recorded messages can respond to simple questions and imitate a real conversation. The goal is to lull you into a false sense of security and eventually ask for your Medicare number or other personal data.

Text Messages and Emails

You may receive a text or email that looks like it’s from Medicare. These messages may:

• Urge you to click on a link to avoid service interruption

• Offer early access to new Medicare benefits

• Ask you to confirm your plan selection for 2025

Clicking on links in these messages can install malware or lead you to fake login portals designed to steal your information.

Door-to-Door Impersonators

While less common, door-to-door scams haven’t disappeared. Scammers might claim they’re from Medicare or a healthcare organization, offering to review your coverage or provide free equipment. Medicare does not send representatives to your home without an appointment.

What Scammers Are After

It’s important to know what kind of information fraudsters want. In most cases, the end goal is to commit medical identity theft. With your Medicare number, they can:

• Bill Medicare for services or supplies you never received

• Open accounts or commit other forms of identity fraud

• Deplete your legitimate benefits

Scammers may also try to get:

• Your full name and date of birth

• Social Security number

• Banking information (especially during supposed refunds or reimbursements)

How to Spot a Medicare Scam in 2025

Even as scams become more sophisticated, there are still common red flags to watch for:

1. Unsolicited Contact Asking for Personal Info

If someone contacts you without you reaching out first, and asks for your Medicare number or banking details, it’s a red flag. Medicare will never call you uninvited to ask for sensitive information.

2. Urgency or Threats

Be wary of any message that pressures you to act immediately or threatens that your benefits will be lost. Scammers thrive on fear and confusion.

3. Offers That Sound Too Good to Be True

Promises of “new benefits,” “limited-time offers,” or “exclusive savings” should be treated with caution—especially if they require you to provide personal details first.

4. Requests for Payment Upfront

Medicare does not charge fees for processing applications or sending replacement cards. Any request for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cash is a major warning sign.

5. Emails with Misspelled Domains or Suspicious Links

Double-check the email sender’s domain. Medicare’s official website ends in “.gov.” Be extremely cautious with any link you’re asked to click, even if the message appears urgent or official.

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam

If you think you’re being targeted or have already shared your information, here’s what to do next:

• Hang up or delete the suspicious message immediately. Do not engage or respond.

• Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to report suspicious activity.

• Check your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB) regularly for unfamiliar charges.

• Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

In cases where personal information has been compromised, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file and monitoring your accounts.

How to Protect Yourself Year-Round

Understand How Medicare Communicates

Medicare doesn’t make unsolicited calls to offer you products, services, or plan changes. Official communication usually comes via U.S. mail. If someone contacts you by phone, verify by hanging up and calling 1-800-MEDICARE directly.

Safeguard Your Medicare Number

Treat your Medicare card like a credit card. Don’t share your number unless you’re at a trusted healthcare provider or pharmacy.

Sign Up for Account Monitoring

Medicare.gov offers a secure online portal where you can:

• Check your claim history

• Review your coverage

• See who accessed your account

Set up your account and check it monthly to catch suspicious activity early.

Educate Yourself During Enrollment Periods

Scams rise sharply during enrollment windows:

• Initial Enrollment Period: Around your 65th birthday

• Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7

• General Enrollment: January 1 – March 31

• Special Enrollment Periods: Based on qualifying events like moving or losing other coverage

During these times, always review your options carefully and verify any communications you receive about your coverage.

Keep Your Devices Secure

• Install antivirus and anti-malware software

• Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing sensitive information

• Enable two-factor authentication on Medicare.gov and email accounts

The Role of Licensed Agents in Preventing Fraud

Licensed agents play a valuable role in helping you make legitimate, informed choices. Unlike scammers, licensed agents:

• Never ask for your Medicare number without proper authorization

• Are trained to explain coverage clearly

• Can help you compare options during enrollment periods without pressuring you

If you ever feel unsure, you can always verify an agent’s credentials or choose to speak directly with Medicare first.

Staying Informed Means Staying Protected

Medicare scams will continue to evolve throughout 2025. But staying informed, recognizing red flags, and protecting your personal information can help you avoid becoming a victim.

If you ever feel unsure about a call, message, or visit, don’t hesitate. Contact a licensed agent listed on this website to walk you through your options safely and securely.