Scammers Target Medicare Open Enrollment

Those eligible for Medicare have until Dec. 7th to enroll in the plan they choose. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of this period and using any opportunity they can to target older Americans. The purpose of these scams is to get personal and financial information in order to steal the victim's identity or money. Deb Marcello shares her tips to avoid some scams this open enrollment time. Some red flags to look for include:

• Real or impersonated insurance providers offering free gifts or limited-time offers such as free medical supplies or other gifts that require your credit card information for shipping costs.
• Receiving a call claiming to be from Medicare, to verify your personal information to issue a “new” card. Medicare is not sending out new cards.
• Pressuring you to buy supplemental insurance products that will supposedly save thousands. These products are often worthless and a means to obtain your personal information
  
• Medicare calling out of the blue. “Spoofing” technology makes it look like incoming calls are coming from Medicare, so your Caller ID may not be trustworthy.

You can compare plans by going to www.medicare.gov or by calling Happier at Home at (585) 633-5555 to refer you to a trusted professional. Stay informed of new scams with the AARP Fraud Alerts.