September 23 – Scammers and high-pressure sales tactics often pop up as Medicare open enrollment season approaches.
Every year, open registrations take place
But there are rules regarding the sales tactics that insurance agents can use. And crooks sometimes pose as government officials to solicit personal information.
Medicare beneficiaries in recent years have been given new identity cards, said
âMost scammers don’t have that number yet, so we would like it to be. Don’t give out your social security number, your bank account information, any private information. Especially if someone has contacted you. . âReeg said.
Ohio residents should be alert to fake Medicare communications seeking personal information or money in exchange for any of the following: providing a new Medicare card.
How to protect yourself: – Never give out personal information, including Medicare,
If you believe an insurance agent is using pressured, fraudulent, or dishonest selling practices, contact the department’s Fraud and Enforcement Division at 800-686-1527.
âIf someone calls you and they get aggressive telling you that you won’t give them your private information, hang up and report,â Reeg said.
Trained officials who are not affiliated with any insurance company are available at 800-686-1578 to answer Medicare questions.
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