Medicare Open Enrollment Brings Rise in Scams

Massachusetts SMP Program Urges Vigilance

LAWRENCE, Mass., Oct. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- During Medicare's Open Enrollment period (October 15-December 7, 2025) beneficiaries have the chance to review and change their coverage. Unfortunately, it also brings a surge in scam calls, fraudulent mailings, and misleading marketing.

"Scammers know this is a confusing time, and they prey on that," said Lucilia Prates, MA SMP Program State Director. "Never confirm or provide your Medicare number with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly, and you do not know and trust."

Watch Out for Red Flags! Beware:

• Unsolicited mailings, calls, texts, or emails asking for your Medicare number.
• High-pressure or threatening tactics urging you to "act now."
• Too-good-to-be-true offers related to insurance plans, like free groceries, refunds, or other unrealistic benefits.
• Mailings that mimic government logos to look official.

Protect Yourself

• Treat your Medicare card like a credit card.  Protect your Medicare number.
• Hang up on suspicious calls and ignore fake texts or emails.
• Don't click on links from unknown senders.
• Compare plans only through www.medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE.
• Get free, unbiased, help from SHINE counselors in Massachusetts. To be connected to a local SHINE counselor and schedule an appointment call MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636 or email SHINE@mass.gov.

We can all do our part to fight Medicare fraud by staying alert, reviewing Medicare Summary Notices/Explanations of Benefits, keeping a Personal Healthcare Journal (My Health Care Tracker, now available in the app store!), and reporting any or all suspicious activity. Together, we can make a difference and protect Medicare for ourselves and future generations. 

For your free healthcare journal, or to report Medicare fraud or a suspicious communication, call the MA SMP Program at 800-892-0890.

About the Massachusetts SMP Program

The Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol Program, funded in part by the Administration for Community Living, and working under the leadership of AgeSpan, Inc., empowers beneficiaries, caregivers, and families to prevent, detect, and report healthcare errors, fraud, and abuse. To learn more or to become a volunteer, visit www.masmp.org. 

Disclaimer: : This publication is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $602,337.00 with 100% funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

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SOURCE AgeSpan, Inc.