There have been several news reports and The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is warning seniors to be aware of a scam. Seniors and people with disabilities have been asked for money and checking account information in order to enroll in one of the Medicare Prescription Drug Plans.
According to CMS, “This scheme is called the ‘$299 Ring.’ This is the typical amount of money Medicare beneficiaries are talked into withdrawing from their checking accounts to pay for a non-existent prescription drug plan. Consumers can report these cases to their local law enforcement agencies or 1-877-7SAFERX (1-877-772-3379).”
Medicare has received complaints from people in several states against a variety different companies, but the authorities feel the companies are the same and are based outside of the United States.
It’s important for seniors and the disabled to understand that None of the Medicare drug plans ask for bank account or other personal information over the telephone. Seniors and disabled people should contact their local police department if they are contacted by someone trying to take money or information from them in order to enroll in a Medicaid Prescription drug plan.
Seniors and disabled people with Medicare should be aware of anyone trying to take advantage of them in person or on the telephone. It’s important to help the seniors and disabled people we know, take steps to protect themselves by reminding them:
- No one can come into their homes uninvited or without their permission.
- No one can ask for personal information during their marketing activities.
- Keep all personal information private and safe.
- If they have a question or concern about any activity regarding Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Legitimate Medicare drug plans don’t ask for payment over the phone or Internet. Medicare monthly premiums are billed to the senior or disabled person and several payments options can be chosen including writing a check, automatic payments from checking accounts, or set up as an automatic withdrawal from their monthly Social Security check.
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