With Medicare’s annual open enrollment period underway, federal officials are warning senior citizens to be on the lookout for scams involving health insurance coverage.

The Federal Trade Commission says scammers are using misleading websites, sponsored internet search results, and official-looking Medicare logos to trick people into providing personal information or signing up for questionable insurance plans.

Some fraudulent websites appear to offer legitimate Medicare enrollment assistance but may instead collect sensitive information or direct consumers toward plans that do not provide the coverage they expect.

Scammers may also contact seniors by telephone, claiming they need to replace their Medicare cards or provide personal information to avoid losing their benefits.

Medicare’s annual open enrollment period began October 15 and continues through December 7. During this time, eligible beneficiaries can review their coverage and make changes for the coming year.

Officials remind residents that Medicare representatives will not call unexpectedly to demand personal information or threaten to cancel coverage unless immediate action is taken.

Chattooga County residents are encouraged to use the official Medicare website at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to verify information about their coverage.

Anyone receiving a suspicious call or message should avoid providing their Medicare number, Social Security number, or banking information.