Slam the Scam: Protect Your Social Security and Medicare

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Summary

Learn how Missourians 65+ can recognize and avoid Social Security and Medicare scams. Warning signs, safer next steps, and how to get help.

Older adult sitting at a table looking at her phone.

Scammers are targeting older adults with calls, emails, and letters that look and sound “official.” As someone who works with Missourians 65+ on Medicare and active aging, I want you to know what to watch for so you can protect the benefits you’ve earned.

This article is inspired by the Social Security Administration’s “National Slam the Scam Day” on March 5, which focuses on helping people recognize imposters and stop scams before they succeed.

Common Warning Signs of Social Security and Medicare Scams

While details vary, most scams aimed at older adults share the same patterns.

1. An unexpected problem or promise

  • You’re told there is a serious issue with your Social Security number or benefits.
  • You’re promised a special increase in benefits or a prize you were not expecting.

2. Pressure to act immediately

  • The caller says you must act right now or your benefits will be reduced or cut off.
  • They discourage you from hanging up, calling back, or talking to anyone else.

3. Requests for unusual payment methods

  • They ask you to pay with:
    • Gift cards
    • Cryptocurrency
    • Gold bars
    • Cash
    • Wire transfers
  • They may claim this is to “protect” or “secure” your money.

Any time you see this combination—unexpected contact, urgency, and strange payment requests—you should assume it may be a scam.

What to Do Instead

If something feels off, slow down. You are not being rude by protecting yourself.

1. Hang up or stop responding

  • Do not stay on the phone just because the caller sounds official or uses a serious tone.
  • Do not click links or open attachments in suspicious emails or texts.

2. Contact official sources yourself

  • Look up the official phone number or website for Social Security or Medicare on your own.
  • Call using that number, not the one that contacted you.
  • Ask them to confirm whether there is really an issue.

3. Report suspicious activity

Reporting scams helps protect you and others.

  • Social Security‑related scams: report to the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General.
  • Other types of scams: report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Why This Matters to Me

I help Missourians 65+ understand their Medicare options and pursue active aging. Part of that calling is helping you protect what you have worked hard to build and the benefits you rely on.

As a follower of Jesus Christ, I see this as a matter of stewardship—using wisdom, not fear, to guide your decisions. Scammers rely on panic and pressure. You do not owe them a quick answer.

You always have the right to say:

“I need time to think about this.”

“I’m going to hang up and call the official number myself.”

“I don’t give out information over the phone.”

How I Can Help Missourians 65+

If you are 65 or older and live in Missouri, here is how I can help:

  • If you receive a confusing call, letter, or email about Social Security or Medicare and you are not sure it is real, you can reach out before you respond.
  • I can’t speak on behalf of the government, but I can help you slow down, think it through, and point you toward official channels.
  • If you want clear, one‑on‑one help understanding your Medicare options, I offer personal guidance as a licensed Medicare agent in Missouri.

Next Steps

  • Share this article with a friend, family member, or church member who is 65+ and might be vulnerable to scams.
  • Talk with the older adults in your life about these warning signs.
  • If you are in Missouri and want help with Medicare or want a second set of eyes on something suspicious, contact me here (link your contact page or form).

Staying informed and taking a moment to pause before reacting can make all the difference.

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