Medium riskHealthcare & Medical Scams

Medical Alert Device Scam

In this scam, robocalls or ads offer a 'free' medical alert device to seniors, often claiming a relative ordered it, then trap you in costly monitoring contracts or harvest payment and personal details.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Medium risk
Scam type
Free-product lure (seniors)
Main red flag
A 'free' medical alert device offer with monitoring fees or card details required.
What to do first
Hang up or ignore; verify any device with family and reputable providers.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, robocalls or ads offer a 'free' medical alert device to seniors, often claiming a relative ordered it, then trap you in costly monitoring contracts or harvest payment and personal details.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'A family member has ordered you a free medical alert device. Confirm your details and card to activate monitoring.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A 'free' device claim, often citing a relative
  • Monitoring fees or card details required to 'activate'
  • Robocalls or ads targeting seniors
  • Pressure to confirm details quickly
  • A provider you cannot verify

What to do

  • Verify any device with family and reputable providers
  • Be wary of 'free' devices that need card details
  • Do not confirm details to robocalls
  • Report and block the number

If you already clicked or replied

  • If you shared card details, contact your bank
  • Cancel any monitoring contract you were signed up to
  • Monitor for misuse of your details
  • Warn older family members

What not to do

  • Do not confirm card details for a 'free' device
  • Do not trust 'a relative ordered it' claims
  • Do not sign monitoring contracts under pressure

Similar scams

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Medicare Scam

In this scam a caller or message poses as Medicare or a health insurer, offering a new card, refund, or free equipment, then asks you to confirm your Medicare or personal ID number, which is later used for fraud.
Medium risk Healthcare

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Medium risk Phone & Voice

Prize Robocall Scam

In this scam, a robocall or live call says you have won a prize, holiday, or cash, then asks for a fee, card details, or personal information to 'release' winnings that do not exist.

Frequently asked questions

Did a relative really order me a device?
Usually not. Claiming a relative ordered a 'free' device is a tactic to get you to confirm details. Check with your family directly.
Why is a 'free' device a warning sign?
The 'free' device often comes with costly monitoring contracts or is a way to harvest card and personal details. Verify with reputable providers.
I gave my card details. What now?
Contact your bank, cancel any contract, monitor for misuse, and warn older family members who may be targeted.
How do I get a genuine medical alert device?
Research reputable providers independently, compare clear terms, and involve family rather than acting on a robocall.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.