Medicare fraud affects everyone, so here’s what to know and do

Medicare losses due to fraud, errors, and abuse cost taxpayers about $60 billion every year. Providers might double bill Medicare for a single treatment, charge for things like a back brace you didn’t get (or need); a company might offer you a fake Medicare drug plan; or a scammer might ask you to confirm your Medicare number ­— which they then use to commit hospice fraud.

Medicare fraud, abuse, and unintentional errors can also contribute to medical identity theft, losing your benefits, and paying higher medical costs. So, what can you do to help fight Medicare fraud while protecting yourself and your community?

• Never share your Medicare number with someone who calls unexpectedly. Medicare won’t call or visit you at home to sell you anything. Medicare representatives will only ask for information if you contact them first.
• Review and report Medicare fraud and abuse. Spot mistakes or inconsistencies in your statements? Ask your medical provider or plan to explain. If you suspect fraud or abuse, call 1-877-808-2468 to reach your local Senior Medicare Patrol, or call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE.
• Report medical identity theft. If someone uses your information to get medical care or services, notify your provider or plan. And report the theft to IdentityTheft.gov to get a personalized plan to help you recover.
• Learn more about protecting and recovering from medical identity theft. Join the FTC, the Identity Theft Resource Center, and the Senior Medicare Patrol Program on June 5, 2026 at 11am ET for a special Facebook Live during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week.

Tell the FTC if you spot any other scams, fraud, or bad business practices: ReportFraud.ftc.gov.