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Beware of COVID-19 Medicare card scams

Scammers are calling beneficiaries and pretending to be with Medicare. The caller tells the beneficiary they need a new Medicare card because of COVID. The caller says they need to confirm a couple of things before sending the card, they then ask for the person’s Medicare number and the enrollment dates on the card.

In another scam, the caller already knows the beneficiary’s name and date of birth. The caller asks the individual if they have received the new black and white COVID-19 Medicare card. Of course, the beneficiary indicates they have not received the new card. The caller states the current red, white, and blue Medicare card will be deactivated in three days, and then asks for the beneficiary’s Medicare number to issue the new COVID-19 card.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is warning consumers not to disclose private medical or financial information in response to unsolicited calls, emails, or visits and to beware of offers that seem too good to be true.

Tips to remember:

– You will NOT lose Medicare coverage. Coverage will NOT be discontinued, do NOT provide your bank account and routing number if someone tries to tell you they are needed for a direct deposit of entitled reimbursements.

– A representative from Medicare will NOT call you demanding you disclose personal financial information to continue your medical eligibility.

– Scam artists are trying to steal your medical identity – your address, Social Security number, Medicare number and medical history. Do NOT give out this information.

– Medicare is NOT issuing new cards because of the pandemic.

Report potential COVID-19 fraud, errors, or abuse if:

– You provided your Medicare number to someone other than your doctor, health care provider, or other trusted representative.

– You provided your Medicare number to someone who contacted you through an unsolicited call, text, or email.

– Someone comes to your door offering “free” coronavirus testing, treatment, or supplies.

Reporting Medicare Fraud:

ND Senior Medicare Patrol helps seniors prevent, detect and report Medicare fraud. If you suspect you, or someone you know, has been a victim of a Medicare scam, contact the ND SMP at ndsmp@minotstateu.edu or call 1-800-233-1737.

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