SCAM ALERT - "Medicare Department" Robocall Targeting Alaskans!

The Alaska Medicare Information Office – Senior Medicare Patrol has received reports that Alaskans are receiving an automated call claiming to be from the “Medicare Department”. The robocall call states “Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, all Medicare beneficiary and Social Security beneficiary over the age of 65 is entitled to claim $1,200 per individual and $2,800 per married couple, and a 10 percent increase on Social Security monthly benefits, and full coverage on hospitalization and medications. To apply for an increase press 1. To speak with a Medicare representative press 2. Or call us at your earliest convenient time at 1-800-674-3847.”

This call is a SCAM working to obtain personal information, specifically your Social Security Number! DO NOT follow the automated voice prompts on the call or provide any personal information to the "Medicare Department" representative. 

If you receive this call and did not provide personal information, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission online at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/ or by calling 1-877-382-4357.

If you (or someone you know) provided personal information to a scammer, you can get assistance from the Alaska Medicare Information Office, Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) at (907) 269-3680 or 1-800-478-6065.

Remember: Scammers use public health emergencies like the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as opportunities for new fraud schemes, and they may target older populations. Scammers call and pose as Medicare and Social Security to obtain your personal information for fraudulent use. If you did not call Medicare or Social Security first and request a call back, chances are it is not really Medicare or Social Security calling!

The best way to protect yourself from scams is to stay informed about current trends. For more information about COVID-19 Fraud Alerts and resources, visit the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) COVID-19 Fraud Page