The Tech Grandkid

The Tech Grandkid · thetechgrandkid.com/scam-alerts/medicare-open-enrollment-calls/

Scam alert · Phone call or text message

Someone calls or texts about Medicare during Open Enrollment

Posted October 19, 2026. Based only on the official warnings linked below.

The official warning

Michigan DIFS and MDHHS press release, October 12, 2026: Michigan DIFS and MDHHS warned that during Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15 to December 7, 2026), CMS will never call or send someone to your home, and you should protect your Medicare ID. Hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE. Ignore anyone who says you must join Part D or you will lose coverage.

Read the Michigan DIFS and MDHHS press release

What to do

  • Don't give your Medicare number to anyone who called or texted you first. Michigan DIFS says you can look at plans without sharing it; you only need it when you enroll.
  • Hang up. Then call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) yourself, or use the number on your Medicare card. CMS says not to trust a number the caller gave you.
  • Type medicare.gov yourself in the browser. Don't tap a link from a text or search result you didn't ask for.
  • Ignore "join Part D or lose coverage." Michigan DIFS says the prescription drug plan is completely voluntary.
  • Don't open the door to someone who shows up claiming to be from Medicare. CMS does not send people to your home that way.
  • Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM).

What it looks like

  • You get an unexpected call or text about your Medicare plan, a new card, or Open Enrollment.
  • The person says they're from Medicare, CMS, or an insurance company, and asks for your Medicare number or address.
  • They say you must join a Part D prescription plan right away or you will lose your Medicare coverage.
  • They want you to click a link, confirm personal details, or let someone visit your home.

Why it works

Michigan DIFS and MDHHS warned on October 12, 2026 that Open Enrollment (October 15 to December 7, 2026) brings more scams and high-pressure sales. They say CMS will never call or send someone to your home, and that Part D is voluntary, so a "join or lose coverage" claim is a lie. A February 2026 CMS Information Security post adds that Medicare will not call to ask for your number or address, and that AI can make these voice scams sound more believable.

Text this to someone you love

Heads up during Medicare Open Enrollment: Medicare will not call you out of the blue for your Medicare number. Hang up, call 1-800-MEDICARE yourself, and type medicare.gov in your browser. Part D is voluntary, so "join or lose coverage" is a scam line.

Sources

Step-by-step help: Can't sign in to Medicare.gov