Don’t let disaster strike twice
The area is still in the midst of hurricane season, and certainly still recovering from the devastating storm that hit the city last month, so it is a prime opportunity for unsavory conmen to capitalize on citizens’ vulnerability and steal valuable personal information. If the wrong person gets their hands on your Medicare number, which happens to be the same as your Social Security number, they have all they need to wreak havoc on your credit and even your medical record.
Financial identity theft is one thing; if a scammer gets ahold of your personal information such as you Social Security number and address, they can run up debt on your credit card.
Even more, if they take that information to file false claims with Medicare or your insurance company, they can steal expensive medical services, such as surgeries and prescription drugs. This is not only extremely costly, but can create inconsistencies and errors in your medical record that can have harmful consequences on your future care.
Watch out for these common disaster scams in the coming months.
The scam: Past-due insurance premiums: You receive notice your insurance will be canceled if you don’t pay immediately by credit card or bank draft. The tip: Call your insurance company using contact information on your policy to check on your premiums.
The scam: Free walker replacements: Simply provide your Medicare number to get your flood-damaged walker replaced, but you get nothing. The tip: Never provide your Medicare number to a person or company in exchange for “free” items.
The scam: Stolen Medicare or Social Security card: Your card was taken from your home after you evacuated. The tip: Check your credit report, contact Medicare to request a Medicare Summary Notice and file a police report.
The scam: FEMA fakers: A “FEMA” representative needs your Social Security number, bank account number and a fee before helping. The tip: Federal/state workers, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
The scam: Pre-approved disaster grant: Provide your Social Security and bank account numbers to initiate the deposit. The tip: Don’t do it. Give this information to them then have your identity stolen and bank account drained.
Your Medicare number is one of the most valuable pieces of personal information for scammers, so be vigilant this storm season and beyond and keep it closely guarded from thieves. To report suspected fraud or identity theft, contact the Texas Senior Medicare Patrol at 888-341-6187 or the Better Business Bureau Education Foundation at 713-341-6141.
Melissa Ramsey is the BBB Education Foundation columnist. For more information, call 713-341-6141.