New York State Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D. Endwell)  is warning residents that, while new Medicare cards can enhance beneficiaries’ security, the initial rollout could open the door for scammers.

Officials say the new cards have randomly-generated id numbers replacing the social security numbers and that could make information more secure.

However, residents should be wary as the cards come out at the end of this month of scammers who may try to trick people into thinking a caller or person on email needs additional contact or other personal information.

Assemblywoman Lupardo says given the number of scams that often arrive by mail, it is important that Medicare recipients also understand the new cards are legitimate and should not be thrown out.

The new cards can be used as soon as they are received and old cards should be shredded and discarded.

Action for Older Persons says no one will be contacted by phone prior to the arrival of the new cards.

Questions can be directed to AOP at (607) 722-1251.

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