Phony Medicare & IRS calls are fishing for personal info

West Virginians are being warned about a Medicare phone scam that is making the rounds.

The scheme, which targets Medicare seniors, has been moving through West Virginia, Kentucky and other states in the region.

The fraudulent phone calls -- identified as originating from 866-234-2255 -- claim to represent a Medicare or Social Security Office and ask consumers for personal information so new Medicare cards can be issued.

When people refuse to provide the requested information, a phony supervisor comes on the line to say the information must be provided to remain enrolled in the Medicare program.

The thieves then use information collected to steal victims’ identities and remove funds from accounts through checks or electronic transactions.
A call to the 866 number used by the Medicare scammers reaches a recording confirming that this is being used in the Medicare spoof, said State Attorney General Darrell McGraw.

McGraw advised consumers to check caller ID on incoming calls and to avoid giving out personal information including policy numbers, date of birth, social security numbers, credit card numbers or bank account information over the phone or on the internet -- especially when speaking with or replying to email from strangers.

“Be suspicious of any requests you get asking for personal or financial data,” McGraw said. “Never offer information. Always verify the identity of the person on the other end of the phone or emailing you. Remember, scammers will typically just hang up if confronted or threatened with a call to the police.”

Thieves are using similar methods for a tax refund scam in which fake IRS phone calls or emails ask for personal and banking information so the person can supposedly receive an additional tax refund.

The IRS does not solicit personal information via e-mail.

If you receive a Medicare scam call or believe you have been a victim of fraud, call police or the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline 1-800-368-8808.