Top Medicare Scams During Open Enrollment

Each year during Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment (October 7 – December 10), scammers ramp up their efforts. This is a time when many people are making changes to their plan or exploring options—and unfortunately, fraudsters try to take advantage of the confusion. Below are some of the most common scams circulating in 2025, along with steps you can take if you suspect something’s wrong.

Common Medicare Scams Targeting Beneficiaries in 2025

1. Spoofed “Medicare” Calls Asking for Personal Information. Scammers posing as Medicare representatives may call unexpectedly, claiming there’s an issue with your coverage or requesting to “verify” your Social Security or Medicare number. In reality, they’re fishing for sensitive data.
2. Fake “Free” Plan Offers or Limited-Time Deals. You might hear an offer like, “We have a new Medicare Advantage plan just for you!” with pressure to sign up immediately. These offers may be bogus or steer you into plans that aren’t right for you.
3. Unrequested Medical Equipment or Supplies. Some scams involve sending you medical devices or supplies you didn’t ask for, then billing Medicare for them. You may receive invoices or explanations later, even though you never agreed to the services.
4. Phishing Emails or Texts. Fraudsters may use emails or texts masquerading as Medicare or plan communications. They’ll include links to fake websites or forms that ask for personal or financial information.
5. “Agent” Visits or Door-to-Door Solicitations. Some scammers try more aggressive approaches—showing up in person at your home, claiming they represent Medicare or an insurance plan, and asking you to sign documents. Genuine Medicare officials rarely make unannounced home visits.
6. Misleading Marketing Using the Medicare Name or Logo. You may see ads or mailers that make it look like they come from Medicare. They may use official logos or language to imply government affiliation. These may be marketing for private plans that benefit the seller—not you.

Why Scams Spike During Open Enrollment

• People are already reviewing plans and changes — this makes them more open to offers or “help.”
• Confusion over plan names and rules creates chances for fraudsters to mislead people.
• Pressure and urgency (“Enroll now or lose coverage!”) is a common tactic to bypass rational decision-making.

What to Do If You Encounter a Medicare Scam

Hang up or delete messages. If a call, email, or text seems suspicious—and especially if the sender asks for your Medicare, Social Security, or banking information—stop the interaction immediately. Don’t engage.

Don’t click links or open attachments. These may lead to fake sites designed to steal your information or install malware.

Verify independently. If you think a communication might be legitimate, call your plan, Medicare (1-800-MEDICARE = 1-800-633-4227), or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Use a known, trusted number—not the one provided by the suspicious message

Check your Medicare statements. Review your “Medicare Summary Notices” (MSNs) and Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) for unexpected charges or services you didn’t receive.

Report the scam. Call 1-800-MEDICARE and ask to report fraud. File complaints with your state attorney general or consumer protection office. Report phishing emails or texts to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Place safeguards. If you think you might have been scammed, take these steps to protect yourself:

• Freeze your credit if your Social Security Number was compromised.
• Monitor bank accounts.
• Use Medicare’s “Guard Your Card” guidance: never share your Medicare or Social Security number except with trusted providers or institutions.

Final Thoughts

Medicare Annual Open Enrollment is a critical time to review your coverage—but scammers know that and step up their activity accordingly. By knowing the red flags, trusting real documentation, and verifying independently, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

At Lifescape Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, we know that Medicare decisions can affect your financial security, your care options, and your peace of mind. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of trusted Medicare resources in the Kansas City area that can help you understand your choices and get the support you need.

Get your free Medicare Resource List today.