Am I Being Scammed? A Quick Checklist

Tick anything that happened. One warning sign is enough to stop and check. Nothing you tick leaves this page.

1. How did it reach you?

A phone call A text or email A letter Someone at my door A package Online or social media

2. What happened? Tick all that apply.

They said they are from Medicare, Social Security, the government, your bank or a company you know. They said there is a problem with your benefits or account, or that you owe money. They said you won something, or qualify for a free card, benefit, brace, test or supply. They pushed you to act right now, told you not to hang up, or asked you to keep it secret. They threatened arrest, a lawsuit, or losing your benefits. They asked you to pay by gift card, wire transfer, payment app, cryptocurrency, or cash picked up at your door. They asked for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank or card details. They said your Medicare plan must change, or a card or benefit needs to be activated for a fee. They asked to get into your computer or phone, or to install an app. A package of medical supplies or equipment arrived that you did not order.

Show me what to do Print this checklist

These questions follow the Federal Trade Commission's four signs of a scam, plus warning signs from Department of Justice and HHS Office of Inspector General Medicare fraud cases. See the fraud protection hub for more tools.

Report Medicare fraud to 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227, TTY 1-877-486-2048) or the HHS Office of Inspector General hotline, 1-800-447-8477. Report other scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Prepared by Senior Benefit Assistance from Federal Trade Commission, Department of Justice and HHS Office of Inspector General public guidance. Updated November 7, 2026. Questions? Call a licensed agent at 1-866-340-3441 (TTY 711).