As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, scammers are using the situation to exploit vulnerable populations. Seniors, in particular, have been targeted with a new scam: free COVID-19 testing.

The scam works by offering free COVID-19 testing to people on Medicare. Scammers contact seniors via phone, email, or even door-to-door visits, even through television advertisements, offering them a “free” test in exchange for their Medicare number. Once the scammers have this information, they can use it to bill Medicare for fake services or even steal the senior’s identity.

To avoid falling victim to this scam, seniors should be aware that legitimate COVID-19 testing sites do not require payment or Medicare information. If someone contacts you and asks for your Medicare number in exchange for a free COVID-19 test, it is likely a scam.

Seniors should also be wary of unsolicited phone calls or emails offering medical services, especially if they are asked for personal or financial information. If you are unsure whether a test is legitimate, contact your doctor or your state’s department of health to find a legitimate testing site near you.

If you suspect that you have been a victim of this scam, you should report it to the Medicare Fraud Hotline at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). You may also report by going to the Federal Trade Commission website: ReportFraud.ftc.gov. These organizations can help you report the scam and protect your Medicare benefits. You may also contact the APILO Elder/YAD team at (415)567-6255 for a free legal consultation.

Remember, scammers are always looking for new ways to take advantage of vulnerable populations. By staying informed and being cautious, seniors can protect themselves from this and other scams. (Source: Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice & U.S. Department of Human Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General)

About the APILO’s Elder and Disability Rights Project:

APILO’s Elder and Disability Rights Project provides legal services in a variety of areas to assist elders and individuals with disabilities to receive public benefits and live a life free from abuse.

The Elder Team works to both to prevent abuse towards elders and people with disabilities and to assist survivors of abuse. We work closely with senior centers, churches, and senior meal sites to keep our services accessible.

With a team of exemplary attorneys and dedicated staff, the team provides a wide range of legal services, including naturalization assistance, other immigration cases, Elder Abuse, Estate planning, eviction defense, conservatorship, guardianship, and restraining orders to name a few.

If you want to learn more about what our team does, please feel free to reach out to us.

–The Elder and Disability Rights Project