Ohio attorney general: Seniors at risk in Medicare enrollment scams

COLUMBUS — As senior citizens scramble to take advantage of the cost savings offered during Medicare enrollment season from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31, scam artists are expected to exploit the system using the guise of the new health-care reform law.

"While Medicare undoubtedly offers Ohioans many beneficial options, we anticipate that this year's enrollment period will bring about a new wave of scams," said Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray.

"Scam artists will attempt to use the new health-care reform law to confuse seniors who are not familiar with the system. So far this year, my office has received more than 60 reports of Medicare-related scams, and we expect the number to climb as the enrollment period approaches," Cordray said in a press release.

Complaints filed with the office describe unsolicited callers requesting personal information such as Social Security numbers and checking account information as well as Medicare ID numbers, which sometimes mirror the policyholder's Social Security number.

Cordray warns that scammers will also use high-pressure sales tactics and claim that seniors must re-enroll in Medicare in order to claim their benefits.

To report a scam or file a consumer complaint with the attorney general's office, call 800-282-0515 or visit www.SpeakOutOhio.gov.