ShooFlyNew Medicare Card Scam
A text or call says your new Medicare card is ready but you must confirm your details first. Medicare mails cards: this is after your Medicare and Social Security numbers.
What It Looks Like
Medicare: Your new benefits card is ready but your account is locked until you confirm your details. Confirm now: [link removed]
The wording, amounts and company change, but the pattern stays the same.
How to Tell It's Fake
- Medicare mails cards. It doesn't text links to “confirm” anything.
- Never give your Medicare number to someone who contacted you.
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE if you're unsure.
How to Check for Real
Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or sign in at medicare.gov, typed in yourself. Never use the link or phone number in the message.
If You Already Tapped or Paid
- Freeze your credit with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. It's free, and stops anyone opening accounts in your name.
- Report it at IdentityTheft.gov, which gives you a recovery plan.
- If you gave your Social Security number, get an IRS Identity Protection PIN at irs.gov to block tax fraud.
Acting in the first hour gives you the best chance of stopping charges.
Report It
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM). It goes to your phone carrier, who uses it to block the sender.
- Report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Then delete it, and block the number.
Not Sure About a Text?
ShooFly checks any text, letter, link or caller in seconds, right on your phone, and tells you what to do next. It also sends scam texts like this one to Junk before you see them. Free.