PROTECT YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR WALLET

There are many reasons to cheer as COVID-19 vaccines begin rolling out across the country, but there is also reason to be extremely cautious.

COVID-19 fraud schemes abound, as scammers are using telemarketing calls, text messages, social media platforms, and door-to-door visits to try to rope in trusting people to prey upon.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

If you receive a recorded call from a number that looks suspicious, the call is likely fraudulent or malicious and you should hang up immediately. Do not respond to prompts to “press 1 to speak to the operator or get your name taken off the list,” and do not provide any personal information. If you respond, you’ll probably get more calls. Block the numbers of the robocalls you receive, although please be aware that those calls may continue from other numbers. Scammers use “spoofing” technology that makes the same calls appear to come from different numbers.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has compiled resources and materials to help partners like Florida Blue Medicare share important and relevant information on the COVID-19 vaccine. Here are some key points and facts worth remembering:

Don’t share your Medicare Beneficiary ID number or pay for access to the vaccine. That’s very likely a scam.

Guard your red, white and blue Original Medicare card like it’s a credit card. Don’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine. You can’t pay to get early access to a vaccine.

If you suspect COVID-19 health-care fraud, report it immediately online with the Department of Health and Human Services Office, or call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477).

Don’t share your personal or financial information if someone calls, texts, or emails you promising access to the vaccine for a fee.

Medicare advisors are there for you as well to report anything suspicious. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

IS THIS A SCAM?

For suspected fraud/ scam related questions visit floridablue.com. Click About Us, then Ethics and Compliance.

It’s not just about protecting your money and identity. It’s about protecting your health. Florida Blue Medicare encourages older adults to not only take advantage of the COVID-19 vaccine but also other potentially life-saving vaccines. Ask your primary care doctor if you’re due for the annual flu shot, pneumonia vaccine, shingles vaccine or Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) booster shot. When you make your health a priority, you not only protect your health but your family’s health as well. Plus, if you’re a Florida Blue Medicare Advantage member, you can earn a $10 gift card through HealthyBlue Rewards just for getting your flu shot. Learn more at floridablue.com/healthyblue.

Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. For more information visit floridablue.com/ndnotice. ©️ 2021 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved.