Medicare 'New Card / Flagged Account' Scam
A caller claims your Medicare account is flagged or that a new card is ready, and asks for your Medicare or Social Security number to 'verify.'
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
A scammer calls or texts claiming there is a problem with your Medicare account, that a new card must be issued, or that new benefits require verification. They ask for your Medicare Number (which is now your own identifier), Social Security number, or bank details. Medicare does not call out of the blue asking for these. The stolen number is used for medical-billing fraud and identity theft.
What it usually looks like
- An unsolicited call or text about your Medicare account.
- A claim your card is being reissued or your account is 'flagged.'
- A request for your Medicare Number or SSN to 'verify.'
- Pressure that benefits will lapse without action.
Common warning signs
- Medicare does not cold-call asking for your number.
- You are pressured to confirm your Medicare or Social Security number.
- The caller offers 'free' equipment or extra benefits for your number.
- They discourage you from hanging up to verify.
Example wording scammers use
“This is Medicare. Your account has been flagged and we're issuing a new card. Please confirm your Medicare Number to proceed.”
“You qualify for new benefits — I just need to verify your Social Security number.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Your Medicare Number and Social Security number.
- Bank or card details.
- Enough to bill Medicare fraudulently in your name.
This is general safety information, not professional advice. It is not legal, financial, medical, or immigration advice, and it does not create a professional relationship. For your own situation, speak with a qualified professional or the official organisation involved. If you are in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number.
What to do
- Hang up and call Medicare directly at the number on your card or medicare.gov.
- Never give your Medicare or Social Security number to an unsolicited caller.
- Guard your Medicare Number like a credit card.
- Tell a trusted family member about the call.
What to do if you already responded
- Report it at 1-800-MEDICARE and at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Watch your Medicare statements for services you did not get.
- Visit IdentityTheft.gov if you shared your SSN.