Money Monday: Beware of Medicare fraud

Once you sign up for Medicare, a federal health insurance, you receive a card with your own individual number -- and it’s important that you guard this number as you would your own social security number.

Why? Fraudsters and scammers are out there trying to access that information to turn your number into cash.

Watch the video above to learn more.

More resources on Medicare fraud

From the Michigan government:

• AG Nessel: Scammers are spoofing health department phone numbers seeking Medicaid, Medicare information
• Avoid scam calls claiming to be from state and local health departments
• Reporting Medicaid fraud and abuse

Read more from Medicare.gov: Help fight Medicare fraud

More from the Medicaid Fraud Hotline: Do you have evidence about a Michigan medical provider overbilling Medicaid or Medicare?

From us: Metro Detroit residents among 53 people charged in massive health care fraud scheme

More info about signing up for Medicare

Read more from Medicare.gov:

• Welcome to Medicare! Tips to get started
• Get started with Medicare
• Plan for my first year
• Support: Talk to someone

Read more from LetsMakeAPlan.org:

• Understanding Medicare
• 6 steps to prepare for Medicare
• Financial tips for health care planning

Read more from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Top 5 things you need to know about Medicare Enrollment

Read more from Somerville Cambridge Elder Services: What should you do to prepare for Medicare at age 64?

More: Money Monday section