Medicare & health insurance scam

Callers posing as Medicare, a health insurer, or a 'medical benefits' office claim you need a new card, a free genetic test, or a back brace — and just need to confirm your Medicare or Social Security number. That number is then billed for fake services or used for identity theft. Medicare never cold-calls to sell anything or ask for your number.

• Unsolicited calls claiming to be from Medicare or a 'health benefits center'
• Offers of free tests, braces, or equipment in exchange for your Medicare number
• Threats that your coverage will be cancelled if you don't verify
• Pressure to sign up for a plan 'today only'

"This is the Medicare enrollment center. New cards are being issued in your area — to keep your benefits active, please confirm your Medicare ID and date of birth."

1. 01Hang up — Medicare will not call you out of the blue.
2. 02Never give your Medicare or Social Security number to an unsolicited caller.
3. 03Check your Medicare statements for services you didn't receive.
4. 04Report to 1-800-MEDICARE and the FTC.