Unfortunately, seniors today are often a target for scammers who are posing as representatives from trusted institutions. These callers usually request personal information under the guise of helping you, but they end up doing the exact opposite. They intend to exploit your data for fraudulent purposes. It’s crucial to avoid falling prey to these scams and take proactive steps to secure your confidential data.

Below, this Medicare Supplement agency in La Porte, Indiana is going to share three crucial things seniors should never tell a suspicious caller to safeguard their identity for a secure future.

1. Your personal banking information

You should never share your banking details with an unknown caller — this should be a common practice. Call back and verify the details if someone pretends to be from the bank.

Banking frauds are more common than you can imagine, and scammers can use your data to operate your accounts and commit other financial fraud. It can lead to substantial monetary losses and extensive recovery procedures for lost funds. If you’re unsure how to secure your account or verify caller information, talk to your bank’s authorities and proceed accordingly.

2. Your Social Security Number

Sharing Your Social Security Number (SSN) with just anyone can have serious consequences. It can be used to open credit accounts in your name, file fraudulent tax returns, and engage in other kinds of identity theft. This can damage your credit score, tarnish your reputation, and lead to financial losses.

Remember, someone legit won’t ask for your SSN, especially over a call or text; if they do, it’s a clear red flag. Also, since SSN fraud is so prevalent, keep tabs on its use. Check your credit report regularly for any unauthorized activities. In addition, safely store all documents containing your SSN and dispose of those papers when they’re no longer needed.

3. Your Medicare claim number

Your Medicare claim number is a crucial piece of information. It’s mentioned on your Medicare card and must remain confidential, or you could face fraudulent claims under your name. If this number lands in the wrong hands, it can disrupt your coverage and benefits, and resolving associated issues can be stressful and time-consuming.

It’s best to provide your Medicare Claim Number only to trusted Medicare providers when you initiate any contact. If someone’s claiming to be from Medicare, you should hang up and contact authorities to verify the request. Be cautious and immediately report suspicious activity.

As a reminder, if you need to share your claim number with your Medicare Supplement agency in La Porte, Indiana for any reason, it’s best to do so in-person or over a secure phone line.

Bonus tip – the relevance of supplemental insurance

Supplemental Insurance (or Medigap) complements your Medicare coverage. If a fraud claim is filed using your Medicare claim number, it can also affect your Medigap benefits. There can be incorrect billing, disruptions in your coverage, and depleting coverage limits.

Not only will you be obligated to pay unexpected out-of-pocket expenses, but you will also face approval/ reimbursement delays and reduced benefits. Therefore, it’s essential to keep your insurance information secure for uninterrupted access to necessary medical care.

Is it safe to give information to your insurance company on a call?

When initiating contact with your insurance company, providing certain details is generally safe. This information can include your name, date of birth, phone number, address, and member ID number. Such data helps verify your identity and enables authorities to provide the assistance you need.

When you partner with a reputable Medicare supplement agency in La Porte, Indiana, you can trust that they will protect all your personal information.

Looking for a Medicare Supplement Agency in La Porte, Indiana?

Are you ready to sit down with a trustworthy Medicare Supplement agency in La Porte, Indiana that can help you find a suitable plan and put your mind at ease? If so, Senior Care Insurance Services is the company to call. With over three decades of experience, we are committed to helping you protect your personal data and find the right coverage for your health needs. Contact us today to discuss your healthcare options.