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LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing her consumer alert on government imposter scams, warning consumers to remain vigilant against fraudulent callers. The Department of Attorney General has received reports that scammers are using spoofing technology to manipulate caller ID to display a real phone number from the Department of Attorney General. The Department has also received complaints of fraudsters claiming to represent the State of Michigan, demanding immediate payment for taxes through Bitcoin or prepaid gift cards.
“Bad actors deploy pressure tactics and claim to be from government agencies to steal your personal details and hard-earned money,” said Attorney General Nessel. “If you think you’ve received a scam call, please hang up and contact the agency directly before turning over any information.”
Attorney General Nessel is reminding consumers that government agencies will not demand money through email, over the phone, or by text. They will mail residents a notice and offer payment options. They will also not ask for or take payment by prepaid gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or a pay app. She cautions consumers to never give out personal or financial information to unsolicited callers. Common signs of a scam include if consumers are:
- Contacted out of the blue with an urgent request.
- Pressured to act or respond immediately.
- Offered something that sounds suspicious.
- Urged to keep the call secret.
- Threatened to turn over personal or financial information.
- Asked for payment in an unusual form.
- Given vague information regarding the purpose of the call and/or caller is reluctant to answer questions about the business or their offer.
To report a scam, file a complaint, or get additional information, please contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Team at:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
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