The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) is urging consumers to beware of a scam involving Medicare numbers and other sensitive personal information.
Consumers report a cold caller telling them that they will be receiving a new Medicare card in January. 
Before getting the new card, the consumer must verify their social security number or supply a bank account number. Many of these calls are originating from one phone number, 409-579-1214.
A variation of this scam involves a scammer telling the consumer that they qualify for free medical supplies. 
The scammer just needs the Medicare card number (which is also the consumer’s social security number), insurance information and/or other personal identifying information.
Follow these tips to keep your information safe:
-Never give out your SSN, bank account number or other sensitive information to someone you do not know.
-Know who is calling. If you are suspicious about a caller, hang up and call a number that you know belongs to the organization/agency.
– Always be skeptical of anyone calling you regarding Medicare, especially when they’re asking for personal information.
-Warn your family and friends about the scam, especially elderly loved ones, as they are often targets of this type of ruse.