RALEIGH -- If you're a Medicare customer in North Carolina, you'll soon receive a new card.

To help eliminate fraud, a new number will now replace the social security number of your beneficiary on that card. But, unfortunately, with any major rollout like this, we're likely to see new scams.

Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair wanted to know just how much Medicare fraud is impacting the U.S., so she sat down with Alyssa Gutierrez of the Better Business Bureau of Eastern North Carolina.

The BBB says they received more than 1,400 complaints and the people lost an estimated $60 billion to Medicare fraud in 2017.  That’s why they’re working to make sure people know how to avoid scams as the new cards roll out through April of 2019.

The BBB of Eastern N.C. offers these tips to stay safe:

Know how the Medicare card switch works.  Understand that Medicare isn't calling consumers about the card switch. Also, the new Medicare cards are being mailed, at no cost, to the address you have on file with the Social Security Administration.   

Never provide personal information to a stranger. Don't share personal details with anyone who calls you unsolicited. Do not confirm or give out your full name, address, Social Security number or any other personal information.  

When you get your new card, be sure to destroy your old card.  Don’t just toss it in the trash. Shred it. If you have a separate Medicare Advantage card, keep that because you’ll still need it for treatment. Otherwise, remember that when you get your new card, your Medicare coverage and benefits will stay the same.  

You cannot pay to upgrade your card. Hang up the phone on ignore those who attempt to sell you an upgraded plastic card. All Medicare cards will be in paper form.

Guard your card.  When you get your new card, safeguard it like you would any other health insurance or credit card. While removing the Social Security number cuts down on many types of identity theft, you’ll still want to protect your new card because identity thieves could use it to get medical services.

Report fraud.  If someone asks you for your information, for money, or threatens to cancel your health benefits if you don't share your personal information, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).   

For more information you can trust, visit the BBB’s website.   

Above information courtesy: BBB Eastern N.C.

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