Beware Medicare phone scams

March 5, 2008
http://www.theorangecountynews.com/n..._news/023.html

A senior citizen answers the phone in her home to hear about a new, improved Medicare card. The caller claims to be from a government agency offering a new "Lifeline" card that would eliminate a monthly fee deducted from her Social Security check.

The senior citizen agrees to pay $389, but moments after hanging up realizes something is not right. She calls the Better Business Bureau and is directed to immediately stop payment to the agency.

Unfortunately, this is just one of many calls that flood the BBB. The Medicare discount thieves have picked up the pace and hit a number of seniors in our area.

The MO is the same: A convincing caller leads the senior down the path of disclosing birth dates, last four digits of Social Security numbers, checking account and credit card numbers. Plain and simple, the call is scam.

It is illegal to sell any Medicare product over the phone or door-to-door. Medicare communicates by mail. Never give your Social Security, bank account or credit card information to someone claiming to be from a government agency. When in doubt, hang up and call the agency directly using the number published in a local phone directory.

If you, a family member or friend find yourself in this position, stop payment and take the time to be sure you are not further victimized by identity thieves.

The Federal Trade Commission provides the following advice: Place a "fraud alert" on your credit reports and review them carefully. The alert tells creditors to follow certain procedures before they open new accounts in your name or make changes to your existing accounts.

The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have toll-free numbers for placing an initial 90-day fraud alert: Equifax, 1-800-525-6285; Experian, 1-888-397-3742; TransUnion, 1-800-680- 7289).

For more information about BBB and to see and access new products and resources, visit www.bbb.org. In Southeast Texas, call 835- 5348 or 1-800-685-7650.