Medicare Open Enrollment Scams Surge Ahead of Enrollment Period

• •Scammers exploit the Medicare open enrollment period, starting October 15, 2026.
• •Common scams include fake Medicare card offers and unsolicited calls asking for personal information.
• •Wisconsin officials report increased scam activity in the weeks leading up to enrollment.

As Medicare open enrollment begins, reports of scams targeting beneficiaries have surged. The Wisconsin Senior Medicare Patrol and Better Business Bureau warn residents to be vigilant against unsolicited calls and emails claiming to represent Medicare. Scammers are using tactics such as spoofing calls, offering fake Medicare cards, and pressuring individuals for personal information. Reports indicate that scam calls have already been received in the weeks leading up to the enrollment period, which officially starts on October 15, 2026. Common scams include claims of better plan options and requests for verification of Medicare numbers. The Senior Medicare Patrol emphasizes that legitimate calls from Medicare will only occur if the beneficiary has initiated contact. Residents are advised to hang up on suspicious calls and verify the identity of callers before providing any personal information.