Stay Aware of Fraud and Scams
Unfortunately, there are a number of fraud artists and scams that target the aging population. We are here to help you stay safe from these common tactics.
Missouri Fraud Prevention Fact
October 2025
Sadly, Medicare scams by phone happen every day. Remember that Medicare will never cold call you and ask for your personal information. When in doubt, hang up and call Medicare at (800) 633-4227.
BEWARE OF MEDICARE MARKETING SCAMS THIS OPEN ENROLLMENT
Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15 and runs through December 7. Some insurance agents or scammers may use aggressive or misleading tactics to trick you into signing up for a plan that isn't right for you, or to steal your personal information. By following these tips, you can stay one step ahead of potential scams.
No One Should Say They Are “From Medicare” – Only Medicare, not private insurance plans, can officially represent Medicare. No agent or company should tell you they are calling “on behalf of Medicare” or use the Medicare name or logo in a way that makes it seem like they are from Medicare.
Watch Out for Unwanted Calls or Messages – Medicare plans cannot cold-call, text, or email you unless you’ve given permission. Plans must also give you a way to opt out of future messages each year. This must be done in writing.
Don’t Fall for High-Pressure Sales Tactics – If someone says, “This deal is only available today,” walk away. That’s a red flag. You have from October 15 to December 7 to make your decision. There is no benefit to signing up early, and you won’t lose your current Medicare coverage if you take your time.
Be Careful with “Free Gifts” – Some people offer gifts to lure you into enrolling. If you’re offered a free item, it must be worth less than $15 and must be available to everyone, no matter if they enroll or not.
Play It Safe – Take your time. Review your options carefully. If something doesn’t feel right or seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to say no or hang up.
Be confident you are making smart choices during Medicare Open Enrollment. Stay informed, stay alert, and protect your benefits.
The Missouri SMP is here to provide you with information you need to protect, detect, and report potential Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse. If you think you or a loved one has been a target of a Medicare scam, call the Missouri SMP at 888-515-6565.
The Missouri SMP is here to provide you with information you need to protect, detect, and report potential Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse. If you think you or a loved one has been a target of a Medicare scam, call the Missouri SMP at 888-515-6565.
Call (888) 515-6565 to report suspected Medicare or Medicaid fraud, errors, or abuse.
This project was supported, in part, by the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $662,347 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government
