10/28/2026
🚨 SCAM ALERT: Protect Yourself During Medicare Open Enrollment! 🚨
With Medicare Open Enrollment running from October 15 to December 7, scammers are actively targeting beneficiaries with phone calls, texts, and emails. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns everyone to stay vigilant against common fraud tactics.
🛑 Common Scam Tactics to Watch For
• Fake "New" Cards: Scammers claim you must pay or verify information to upgrade to a "plastic card," "chip card," or new Medicare number.
• Impersonation: Fraudsters pretend to be from Medicare, the FTC, or a health agency—often using spoofed numbers so your caller ID looks official.
• Threats: They may claim your coverage or benefits will be canceled immediately unless you give them personal info.
• Bogus Offers: Promises of free medical equipment, "extra help," or genetic testing in exchange for your personal or financial data.
• Phishing Sites: Fake texts or emails linking to bogus websites designed to look like official government portals.
🛡️ How to Stay Safe (FTC Rules)
• Medicare NEVER cold-calls: Official Medicare representatives will never call, text, or email out of the blue asking for your Social Security number, Medicare number, or bank details.
• Cards are free and automatic: Medicare cards are always mailed automatically, made of paper, and cost nothing. There are no plastic or chip upgrades.
• Don't trust Caller ID: Numbers can easily be fake.
• Ignore unsolicited outreach: Hang up immediately, delete unverified text messages, and do not click unknown links.
📞 How to Report Scams
If you suspect a scam attempt or have been targeted:
• Medicare Hotline: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
• FTC Reporting: Report online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• Local Support: Reach out to your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)
Stay safe, protect your personal information, and share this post to keep family and friends informed! 💙
𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡
Contact SJC Seniors vs Crime volunteers or the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office at 904-824-8304. To request a public presentation on fraud prevention or to file a request for assistance in a civil dispute, call: 904-209-1432.
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