What to Do if Your Medicare Number Is Stolen or Misused
Short answer
Protect your Medicare number like other sensitive financial information and act promptly if it appears to have been exposed or used without authorization.
Coverage And Action
Review MSNs or plan EOBs for unfamiliar providers, equipment or services; contact Medicare about suspicious activity; and follow official identity-theft guidance when other personal information is compromised.
Not Automatic
An unexpected call claiming to be from Medicare is not a reason to disclose your Medicare number. Verify the caller independently through an official number.
Practical Example
If a caller offers free braces in exchange for your Medicare number, do not provide it; independently verify any legitimate medical need with your own clinician.
Questions to verify
- Do I recognize every claim?
- Who received my Medicare number?
- Have I contacted Medicare through an official channel?