The latest Medicare phone scam comes from a New York based company by the name of ‘GMY’. Complainants allege that GMY company representatives contact consumers and ask that they verify their information in order to update their Medicare cards. Consumers have reported phone calls coming from 866-680-0169, one of the known GMY phone numbers. Although it may seem like a routine call, these scammers are only after bank account numbers and other personal information. Some consumers report they were threatened with losing their Medicare and Social Security benefits if they failed to provide the updated information.
The scam has made one Concordia, Kansas resident a victim.
So far, consumers have also been contacted in New York, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Ohio. BBB wants to make sure this list doesn’t grow and offers the following tips to avoid falling victim to this Medicare scam.
Don’t give out personal information such as bank account numbers credit card numbers, dates of birth or social security numbers to unfamiliar callers.
The government does not call, text or email. Government agencies typically communicate through the mail, so be very cautious of any unsolicited calls, text messages or emails you receive. Also, if the government is contacting you, they should already have your basic personal info, such as your address and social security number.
Beware of threats or immediate calls to action. Threats stating that you’ll lose your Medicare and/or Social Security are a red flag. If you have questions regarding your coverage, contact Medicare directly at, 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
Don’t by fooled by door-to-door or telephone salespeople that tell you medical services or equipment are free.
Give your insurance/Medicare identification our sparingly. You should only give your insurance/Medicare information to those who have provided you with medical services.
Keep accurate records of all health care appointments to prevent fraud involving Medicare/Medicaid information provided to doctors or caregivers.
Identify real Medicare providers by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227); TTY users can call 1-866-653-4261 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you suspect identity theft, or believe you may have given your personal information to someone you shouldn’t have, call the Federal Trade Commission’s ID Theft Hotline at 1-877-438-4338. For more information about Medicare and Medicare fraud, visit www.medicare.gov.