Medicare Scam Hits Twin Tiers: What You Need to Know

A recent surge in Medicare scams has been reported in the Twin Tiers region of New York, with scam callers targeting residents by asking for their Medicare numbers. This scam is not new, but it has seen a resurgence in recent times, making it crucial for residents to be aware of the tactics used by these scammers.

1. How the Scam Works

Scam callers typically employ various tactics to convince victims to disclose their Medicare details. They often sound credible and may use AI technology to replicate voices, making it difficult for people to distinguish between real and fake calls. The callers may also spoof their phone numbers to appear as local or government contacts, adding to the deception.

It is essential to remember that Medicare will never reach out to you for your number. Typically, you must initiate contact with Medicare. If you receive a call asking for your Medicare number, it is guaranteed to be a scam. Hang up without hesitation and do not provide any personal information over the phone.

2. Who Is Targeted

The Medicare scam specifically targets senior citizens and other vulnerable groups. Elderly individuals are often more susceptible to these scams due to their trust in authority figures and potential lack of familiarity with modern technology. It is crucial for family members and caregivers to discuss this scam with their elderly relatives and educate them on how to avoid falling victim.

If you have elderly relatives, make sure they understand that never sharing personal information over the phone is paramount. Encourage them to respond with, 'Okay, I will contact the office directly,' and avoid calling the number provided by the scammer. Instead, look up the official Medicare number and reach out to them directly.

3. How to Protect Yourself

To protect yourself from these scams, stay alert and verify any phone call, text, or correspondence on your own. Do not simply trust notifications received via phone. If you are uncertain about the legitimacy of a call, it is wise to reach out to law enforcement or contact the institution directly.

Sheriff Douglas Hou emphasized the importance of vigilance: 'Never share any personal information over the phone. Always respond with, 'Okay, I will contact the office directly.' Avoid calling the number they provide. Instead, look up the official Medicare number and reach out to them directly. Stay alert, particularly in todays world where artificial intelligence can imitate voices. When in doubt, make a call. Do not provide any details over the phone.'

These scammers often operate from abroad and profit significantly from deceiving individuals in the United States. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious and proactive in protecting your personal information.

4. Additional Tips

Additional tips include being aware of AI technology used by scammers to replicate voices and spoof phone numbers. Other fraudsters are now utilizing AI technology to replicate the voices of friends, family members, and public figures. If you are uncertain about a call, it is wise to reach out to law enforcement or contact the institution directly.

By being informed and taking proactive steps, residents in the Twin Tiers region can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these Medicare scams.