Stay Safe During Medicare's Enrollment: Avoid Scams

October's Cybersecurity Awareness Month aligns with Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, a time when many Americans are particularly vulnerable to scammers. As you or your loved ones prepare to make important healthcare decisions, it's crucial to stay vigilant. This blog serves as a practical guide, helping you protect yourself from fraudulent activities that spike during this period.

Understand Common Scam Tactics

• Be wary of offers for “free” medical equipment or tests in exchange for your Medicare number.
• Beware of threats about an expiring card or plan.
• Avoid high-pressure sales tactics that push you to make quick decisions.

Be Cautious with Unexpected Contact

Medicare will never call, text, or email you to ask for personal details or payment. If you receive any suspicious messages, hang up, delete them, and report the instance immediately.

Strengthen Your Digital Defenses

• Create strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
• Install antivirus software and ensure your devices are updated with the latest security patches.
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages.

Be Mindful on Social Media

Limit the personal information you share online. Innocent-looking quizzes or posts can collect data used to breach your accounts or answer security questions. Cybercriminals can use seemingly harmless details to orchestrate complex scams.

Know How to Respond

• Review any suspicious communications critically. If something feels off, trust your instincts.
• Block and report scam messages and callers immediately.
• Do not entertain unknown visitors, and always check their credentials.
• Regularly review Medicare notices for any discrepancies.

For help, call the Medicare hotline: 1-800-MEDICARE. You can also reach out to your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) for guidance and support.

Your vigilance is your best defense against scams. While cybersecurity threats are ever-evolving during the Annual Enrollment Period, remember that support is always available—both from Medicare and trusted advisors. Never hesitate to reach out if you need guidance or have questions.