BEWARE OF SECOND MEDICARE CARD SCAM
The Cleveland Better Business Bureau has recently received information regarding a scam hitting the Cleveland area. A local senior called us reporting that Representative John McClain called her. She stated Mr. McClain was offering her a “second” Medicare card especially designed for seniors. He explained the “second card” was to use in conjunction with her existing Medicare card.
The gentleman then stated he already had all her information in his database and will issue her the “second” card within a couple days once she verifies herself. He stated in order to do this, he needed the name of her bank and her checking account routing number. Unfortunately, our local senior provided him with the information. Once she hung up, she then became concerned about the information she provided. She decided to call Medicare directly and explain what happened. The Medicare office told her there isno “second” Medicare card for seniors and that they would never call and ask you for that type of personal information. She then called us and her bank to report the incident.
Please be aware that the Medicare office, Social Security office and banks would never call you asking for personal information such as: routing numbers, account numbers, credit card numbers (including the three digit security code), social security card numbers etc. If you are contacted by someone representing themselves from the above and tells you they need this information to verify who you are …. hang up!!
The BBB provides the following tips:
- Never give your Social Security or other account information to organizations you have not thoroughly investigated.
- Put your phone number on the “National Do Not Call Registry” at 1-888-382-1222 or go to www.donotcall.gov and register.
- Take your time … don’t fall for high pressure sales tactics.
- Call the Cleveland BBB at 216-241-7678 with any questions or concerns.
Greater Cleveland Better Business Bureau
2800 Euclid Avenue, 4th FloorClevelandOhio44115
216-241-7678 ●
The BBB Foundation thanks Dominion East Ohio Gasand many generous BBB Accredited Businessesfor their support of the Senior Awareness Initiative