Summary
Learn how Missourians 65+ can recognize and avoid Social Security and Medicare scams. Warning signs, safer next steps, and how to get help.
Scammers are targeting older adults with phone 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 have earned.
This article is inspired by the Social Security Administration’s National Slam the Scam Day on March 5. The goal of that day is to help people recognize imposters and stop scams before they succeed.
Common warning signs of Social Security and Medicare scams
Scams can look different on the surface, but many share the same warning signs.
1. An unexpected problem or promise
Be careful if you are told any of the following:
- There is a serious problem with your Social Security number.
- Your benefits will be reduced or stopped.
- You are suddenly eligible for a special increase in benefits or a prize that you did not expect.
If the message is a surprise and sounds urgent, treat it with caution.
2. Pressure to act immediately
Scammers want you to act before you have time to think. They may say things like:
- “You must act right now or your benefits will be cut off.”
- “If you hang up, we cannot help you and you will lose everything.”
- “Do not talk to anyone else. This is confidential.”
If you feel rushed or threatened, that is a strong warning sign.
3. Requests for unusual payment methods
Scammers often ask you to pay in ways that are hard to trace. They may ask you to send:
- Gift cards
- Cryptocurrency
- Gold bars
- Cash
- Wire transfers
They may say this is the only way to protect or secure your money. Social Security and Medicare will not demand payment in these forms.
If you notice any combination of:
- Unexpected contact
- Urgent pressure
- Unusual payment requests
assume it might be a scam and slow down.
What to do if something feels wrong
You are allowed to protect yourself. You do not have to be polite to a scammer.
1. Hang up or stop responding
- If a call feels suspicious, it is okay to hang up.
- Do not press buttons or follow instructions on recorded messages from unknown callers.
- Do not click links or open attachments in suspicious emails or text messages.
2. Contact official sources on your own
- Look up the official phone number or website for Social Security or Medicare yourself.
- Use a source you trust, such as the Social Security Administration’s official website or Medicare’s official website.
- Call that number and ask if there is a real issue with your benefits.
Do not call back using a phone number given to you in the suspicious call, email, or letter.
3. Report suspicious activity
Reporting scams helps protect you and other people.
- For Social Security‑related scams, report them to the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General.
- For other types of scams, report them to the Federal Trade Commission.
If you are not comfortable going online, ask a trusted family member, friend, or caregiver to help you report the scam.
Why this matters for your health and finances
I help Missourians 65 and older understand their Medicare options and pursue active aging. Protecting yourself from scams is part of protecting your health and your finances.
As a follower of Jesus Christ, I believe we are called to use wisdom and not let fear control our choices. Scammers often use fear and urgency to push people into quick decisions. You do not owe a stranger on the phone any decision on the spot.
You can say things like:
- “I do not give out personal information over the phone.”
- “I am going to hang up and call the official number myself.”
- “I need time to think about this.”
These are reasonable and safe responses.
How I can help Missourians 65+
If you are 65 or older and live in Missouri, I may be able to support you in the following ways:
- If you receive a call, letter, or email about Social Security or Medicare and you are not sure if it is real, you can contact me before you respond.
- I cannot speak for the government, but I can help you slow down, think through what you received, and point you toward official resources.
- If you want clear, personal help understanding your Medicare options, I offer guidance as a licensed Medicare agent in Missouri.
You should never share your Social Security number, banking information, or Medicare number with me by email or text. Use secure and appropriate channels when we talk about your situation.
Next steps you can take today
Here are a few simple actions you can take right now:
- Talk with a friend, family member, or someone at your church about scam warning signs.
- Share this article with someone you know who is 65 or older.
- Save the official contact information for Social Security and Medicare in a safe place so you can find it when you need it.
- If you live in Missouri and want help with Medicare or have questions about a possible scam, use my contact page on this site to reach me.
Taking a moment to pause, verify, and ask for help can make a big difference in protecting your benefits and your peace of mind.