Understanding the Risks of Scams Targeting SSDI and Medicare Beneficiaries

Every day, scammers are finding new ways to steal your hard-earned benefits. Are you protected? In today’s digital world, it’s easier than ever for scammers to target Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Medicare beneficiaries with Medicare fraud and identity theft. They’re after your personal information, and if they get it, you could face huge medical bills for services you never even received!

It is just as crucial to protect your medical information as it is to protect your Social Security number or your date of birth, as failing to do so can lead to medical identity theft.

It’s crucial to protect not only your Social Security number and date of birth but also your medical information. Failing to do so can lead to medical identity theft.

Stay Informed About Common Types of Medicare Fraud

Scammers can target anyone, which is why it’s important for all of us to be aware of the common tricks they use to steal personal, medical or financial information. Here are some helpful tips to protect yourself and your loved ones:

1. Keep your Medicare card safe: Treat your Medicare card with the same care as your Social Security card or credit card.
2. Be cautious during open enrollment: Scammers may take advantage of the situation by contacting you under false pretenses after Medicare’s open enrollment period. They might claim there’s an issue with your Medicare selections, or that you need a new Medicare card, all in an effort to get you to share your Medicare number or other sensitive information.
3. Stay vigilant: Always be cautious and avoid giving personal information to anyone who asks for it over the phone or via text, even if they seem to be from Medicare. Remember that Medicare will never ask for sensitive account information over the phone or through unsecure channels like text messages or emails. If you receive such a request, do not click on any links or call any numbers provided.

Know How Medicare Communicates

Receiving a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from Medicare is a common tactic of Medicare fraud, and it’s normal to feel anxious when it happens. Scammers are experts at exploiting our fears and can sound very convincing. Here’s what you should know about legitimate communications from Medicare:

• Medicare will not call to sell anything: Medicare professionals will never call you to sell a product or to try to visit your home.
• Limited situations for calls: The only times Medicare or its representatives may call you are:
  • If you’re already a member of a Medicare health or drug plan
  • If you’ve called 1-800-MEDICARE and left a message
  • If you’ve reported suspected fraud and someone is following up on your case

For more details on how Medicare uses your personal information, visit Medicare’s Privacy Practices.

Vulnerable Groups: Veterans and SSDI Beneficiaries

Veterans and SSDI beneficiaries are particularly vulnerable to Medicare fraud. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), veterans and active-duty service members are targeted more frequently than civilians and are 40% more likely to lose money due to scams.

Some recent scams targeting veterans include:

• Fraudsters posing as Veterans Affairs (VA) advisors offering to manage benefits for a fee
• Scammers representing fake charities or promoting special military deals on products

For a list of common scams targeting veterans, visit SSA’s Blog.

Protect Yourself Against SSDI Scams

If you receive SSDI benefits, be aware of specific tactics used against disability beneficiaries. Remember that the SSA will never:

• Send texts or emails with images of official ID
• Suspend your Social Security number
• Threaten legal action unless you pay immediately
• Require payment through gift cards or cash
• Promise benefits in exchange for payment
• Send personal information via email

Be Cautious and Verify

It’s always wise to be cautious when sharing personal information. If something feels off, trust your instincts and hang up or close the email. Here are some key reminders:

• Medicare will not ask for financial information over the phone: To verify any communications, contact 1-800-MEDICARE directly.
• Official letters from SSA: If you owe money, SSA will send a letter outlining payment options and rights. If unsure about its authenticity, reach out directly to SSA.
• Report suspicious activity: If you suspect Medicare fraud via phone calls, emails, texts or social media messages, report it to help protect others.
  • Report suspected Social Security scams: SSA Fraud Reporting
  • Report suspected Medicare scams: FTC Fraud Reporting

For additional Medicare assistance, please reach out to the trusted Client Advocates of Advocator Advantage.

Important Note

This information is not intended as advice regarding claiming benefits or financial decisions. Each individual’s situation is unique; please visit ssa.gov or medicare.gov for more details on fraud prevention.