Top 8 Medicare Scams in 2025

The top Medicare scams to avoid include scammers seeking your personal information, such as your Medicare or Social Security numbers.

While there are several types of Medicare fraud, most have something in common — they want to collect your personal information or overcharge your Medicare account for services that you never received.

Read on to explore the most common Medicare scams to avoid and how to spot them. The best way to avoid Medicare fraud is to ignore phone calls and emails from solicitors.

8 Most Common Medicare Scams

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Top Medicare Scams to Avoid

Medicare scams are an increasing issue, targeting seniors through phone calls, emails, and even door-to-door visits.

Even with a good understanding of Medicare basics, many people struggle to recognize Medicare fraud schemes before it’s too late.

Scammers often pose as legitimate providers or Medicare representatives to steal money, personal information, or benefits.

Knowing the most common scams can help you protect your health and your finances from Medicare scammers.

While there are many Medicare scams online, over the phone, and through the mail, most have the same aims.

We’ve listed the most common types of Medicare scams to watch for, so you can be prepared if you ever come across them.

#1: Free Medical Equipment

One of the most common Medicare scams offers “free” medical equipment such as braces, wheelchairs, or back supports.

Scammers claim your Medicare Part B benefits will cover the full cost, but they need your Medicare number to process the order.

Once they have your information, they may bill Medicare for expensive equipment you never received or charge you for items you never ordered.

Although this type of scam is most often done over the phone, it’s also commonly used in Medicare scams by mail.

#2: Genetic Testing

You may receive calls or letters offering free DNA or cancer screening tests. Scammers claim these tests can detect diseases early and that Medicare Part A will pay for them.

In reality, most of these offers are fake. Scammers use them to collect personal data or send false claims to Medicare under your name. You should only take genetic or diagnostic tests ordered by your physician and performed by a trusted lab.

#3: COVID-19 Tests and Vaccines

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, fraudsters have taken advantage of confusion around testing and vaccination. They might offer home COVID-19 tests, vaccines, or “priority” vaccine appointments in exchange for your Medicare number or a fee.

Medicare covers approved COVID-19 tests and vaccines at no cost when obtained through authorized providers. If someone asks for payment or personal information, it’s a scam to get access to your Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D benefits.

#4: Fake Medicare Representatives

Scammers often pose as Medicare agents calling to “verify” your coverage, teach you how to sign up for Medicare, or issue a new card.

They may also claim you need to pay a fee for an updated Medicare ID or to reactivate your account.

This is one of the most common Medicare scams by phone, and you may get multiple calls from different numbers.

Know that a Medicare agent will never call or visit you uninvited to ask for personal details or payments.

Hang up immediately and contact Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE to confirm any official communications.

#5: Telehealth Bills

Telehealth became popular after the COVID-19 pandemic, and so did telehealth fraud. Medicare scammers may bill you for telehealth visits that never happened or trick you into participating in unnecessary appointments just to charge the program.

Keep track of your telehealth appointments and check your Medicare Summary Notice for any services you don’t recognize. This is good advice for any health insurance plan. Check our complete healthcare guide for more information.

#6: Prescription Drug Scams

Fraudsters might advertise cheap prescription drugs or online pharmacies that don’t require a prescription to get access to your Medicare Part D information.

These sites can steal your information or send counterfeit medications. Others may offer “discounts” that require you to share your Medicare or Social Security number.

To avoid these scams, you should only use licensed pharmacies and trusted Medicare-approved drug plans. Never buy prescriptions from unsolicited offers.

Enticing people with cheap prescription drugs is one of the most common online Medicare scams, so make sure to speak with your doctor before trying to purchase a new medication.

#7: Identity Theft

Some scammers target seniors simply to steal their Medicare numbers or Social Security information. Once they have it, they can file false claims, open credit accounts, or sell your identity on the black market.

While this type of Medicare fraud happens through phone calls and physical mail, it’s one of the more common types of email Medicare scams.

Scammers often target Medicare members during the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for Medicare, where people may be confused about how to sign up.

If you need help, genuine Medicare representatives are available. Call (855) 634-0435 to speak to someone now.

#8: Home Care Fraud

Fraudulent home health agencies may offer in-home care or therapy you don’t need, then bill your Medicare coverage for fake services.

In some cases, dishonest providers may even convince you to sign blank forms that they later use to falsify claims. Make sure to only accept home care services ordered by your doctor and from agencies certified by Medicare.

How to Spot a Medicare Scam

Medicare scams can be surprisingly convincing, often disguised as legitimate calls, emails, or mail from trusted sources. One of the biggest red flags is unsolicited contact.

If someone claims to be from Medicare or a healthcare provider and asks for personal information, it is most likely a scam. However, there are some more key signs to look out for.

Warning Signs of a Medicare Scam

Scammers may say you need to “verify” your identity, confirm coverage, or pay for a new Medicare card. Other warning signs include offers that seem too good to be true, like free medical equipment, genetic tests, or special Medicare savings programs.

You should also be cautious if you notice unfamiliar charges or services on your Medicare Summary Notice or Explanation of Benefits. Fraudsters may bill Medicare for services or equipment you never received.

How Medicare Scammers Contact People

High-pressure tactics, threats of losing coverage, or promises of faster service for a fee are also strong indicators of a scam.

If something feels off, whether it’s a suspicious email, a pushy salesperson, or a charge you don’t recognize, it’s best to pause and verify the information directly with Medicare before taking any action.

How to Report Medicare Scams

If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a Medicare scam or notice suspicious charges on your account, it’s important to report it right away.

You can learn more about the various places to report in our Medicare guide, but the list below covers most bases:

How to Report Medicare Scams

When filing a report, gather as much information as possible. Get the caller’s name or phone number, the date and time of contact, and any suspicious billing details.

Keep copies of your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs), statements, or emails that may serve as evidence. Reporting scams not only helps protect your own benefits but also assists authorities in preventing others from becoming victims.

How to Avoid Medicare Scams

The best defense against Medicare scams is staying informed and cautious with your personal information.

Never share your Medicare or Social Security number with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly by phone, email, or door-to-door visit.

Medicare will never call to ask for personal details or payments, so treat any such request as suspicious. It’s also wise to regularly review your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) or Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) to make sure the services and charges listed are accurate.

If you spot something you don’t recognize or that seems suspicious, call 1-800-MEDICARE and report it immediately.

Tips to Avoid Medicare Scams

Always use trusted doctors, pharmacies, and medical equipment suppliers, and avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or texts about Medicare coverage and eligibility.

When disposing of old statements or personal documents, shred them to prevent identity theft. Staying alert and verifying any unexpected offers or communications can help you protect your coverage and peace of mind.

Recovering From Medicare Scams

If you discover that you’ve fallen victim to a Medicare scam, it’s important to act quickly to limit any potential damage.

Start by contacting Medicare to report the fraud and request a new Medicare card with a different number. If you have Medicare Part C, you should also contact your insurance provider if you experience Medicare Advantage scams.

Review your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) carefully and flag any charges or services you don’t recognize. You should also contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through reportfraud.ftc.gov to document the scam and receive personalized recovery steps.

The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program can also be an invaluable resource, offering free one-on-one assistance to help you resolve billing issues, understand your benefits, and prevent future scams.

Read More: What is Medicare Advantage?

Learn the Top Medicare Scams to Avoid

Navigating Medicare can be confusing, but you don’t have to do it alone. Always rely on trusted sources such as Medicare.gov, licensed insurance agents, or verified senior advocacy organizations for accurate information.

Staying alert and informed is the best way to protect your benefits. Whether you have Medicare Advantage vs. original Medicare, finding help is simple.

If you want to compare the cost of your Medicare coverage to other plans, speaking with a licensed insurance agent can help.

We have licensed agents ready to speak with you. Call (855) 634-0435 to get the help you need.