BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Scammers are exploiting a real Medicare data breach and your loved ones could be targets.
What’s happening
Following a widespread Medicare data breach several months ago, 1.3 million Medicare beneficiaries are receiving new Medicare cards in the mail.
But scammers are taking advantage by sending fake cards potentially designed to steal your money and your identity.
The red flags
The Alabama Department of Senior Services has issued a warning: fake, plastic Medicare cards are appearing in mailboxes across the state.
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These cards urge recipients to “activate” them — that’s the trap.
“The problem is that scammers are also aware of these things, these data breaches, and they look to take advantage,” said Jamie Harding with AARP Alabama.
What’s at stake
If you “activate” a fake card, scammers could potentially:
- Steal your Social Security number
- Use your Medicare number to make fraudulent charges
- Access your bank account information
How to tell the difference
Real Medicare cards are never plastic.
“I think the thing to emphasize is legitimate Medicare cards are always going to be made of paper,” Harding said.
You will never need to “activate” a new Medicare card.
New Medicare cards are free. You will never be asked to pay.
Spread the word
AARP Alabama said scammers are already reaching real people.
“One of our volunteers received one of these in the mail recently, called us and said ‘What’s this about?’ So, you know, these scams are spreading around,” Harding shared.
People are encouraged to talk to family and friends about this scam.
What to do
Have questions? Contact:
Medicare – 1-800-MEDICARE
Alabama Department of Senior Services – 1-800-AGE-LINE
Think you’ve already been scammed?
Contact police right away.
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