AG warns Idaho seniors about Medicare scams

Attorney General Raúl Labrador is issuing a consumer alert today warning Idaho seniors about Medicare phone scams that have generated a surge of complaints to his Consumer Protection Division.

The scam typically involves a caller claiming your Medicare card has expired, been lost or requires account verification. Scammers use spoofed local phone numbers to appear legitimate and follow polished, professional scripts designed to extract your Medicare number, Social Security number or date of birth. With that information, criminals can bill Medicare for services and supplies that were never provided, costing taxpayers millions, according to a press release.

“My Consumer Protection Division has seen a surge in complaints from Idaho families, and we want seniors and their families to know how these scams work before they become victims,” said Labrador. “No one from Medicare will ever call you to ask for your number. Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE directly, report it at ReportScamsIdaho.com or contact local law enforcement.”

Medicare will never call you to request sensitive personal information, charge fees for replacement cards or demand payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer or cash. Official Medicare communication arrives by U.S. mail. Treat your Medicare card like a credit card and never share your number unless you are at a trusted healthcare provider or pharmacy, the release said.

If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from Medicare:

• Do not provide your Medicare number, Social Security number or date of birth

• Do not make any payment by gift card, cryptocurrency or wire transfer

• Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE directly to verify

If you have received a suspicious call or believe you have been targeted by Medicare fraud, report it immediately at ReportScamsIdaho.com or contact local law enforcement.