Share or view as webpage | Unsubscribe

Consumer Alerts

Here are the top Consumer Alerts from December you should be aware of:

After the Disaster Scams
After disasters, scams increase. Watch out for imposters and fake repair contractors. Avoid pressure tactics. Verify credentials and get written estimates. Report price gouging or fraud to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team.

Government Imposter Scams
Scammers posing as government agencies may offer money or demand personal information or payment. Don’t click links, open attachments, or respond. Block and delete the message and report it. Legitimate government agencies don’t offer grants or demand payment by phone, text, email, gift cards, or apps.

Utility Imposter Scams
Scammers may pose as utility companies. They may threaten utility shutoff and demand urgent payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps. Utilities never require instant or unusual payments. If you are suspicious, hang up. Verify your account using the phone number on your utility bill or website.

Data Breaches
Data breaches are increasing. They put consumers at greater risk for identity theft. If you receive a breach notice, act quickly to learn what information was exposed. Review your credit reports and place fraud alerts or security freezes on them. Use two-factor authentication and take advantage of free services offered to reduce the risk of identity theft.

File a Complaint
Consumers should know complaints become part of the public record. These records may be shared with third parties. Do not send original documents or sensitive information unless necessary. The Consumer Protection Team reviews complaints and acts as a go-between. The Team cannot act as a private attorney.

Free Credit Reports: What Consumers Should Know
A credit report is a record of your credit history used by lenders to make decisions about you. Review reports often to spot errors and identity theft. Consumers can access free weekly reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Confirm that the information is accurate and up to date.

Business Sudden Closure - Protect Yourself
Consumers should act quickly when a business closes before delivering goods or services. They should also research the company in advance and limit down payments. Protect personal records and file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office.

Don't Fall Victim to Gift Card Scams
If someone asks for payment with a gift card, it’s a sign of a scam. Criminals will pose as law enforcement, utilities, or even family members. They may try to pressure victims into sharing untraceable gift card numbers. Report scams immediately to limit losses.

Gifting Circles Good, Gifting Schemes Bad: How to Spot an Illegal Pyramid Scheme
So-called “gifting circles” involving recruiting people for cash or gifts are illegal pyramid schemes in Michigan. Recruiting drives them. They may have friendly names like “Secret Sister” or “Women Empowering Women.” They promise large payouts. But when they fall apart, most participants lose money or are at risk of identity theft.

Avoiding Unhappy Returns - Returning Merchandise Bought Online or In the Store
Consumers can avoid return surprises by reviewing store return policies before buying. Policies vary by retailer and may include time limits or store credit instead of refunds. Keep your receipts. Ask about holiday exceptions. Know your rights if defective items are refused.

Payment Apps and Scams
The Attorney General warns consumers about peer-to-peer payment apps. Apps like Venmo and Zelle offer convenience but provide limited protections. Users can be victims of scams, payment errors, and fraud. Treat these apps like cash, verify recipients, and avoid unknown sellers.

Online Shopping - Be Smart, Stay Safe
The Attorney General warns consumers about online schemes like countdown timers and pressure messages. These schemes are designed to cause impulse purchases. Shoppers are urged to secure devices and shop only on trusted websites. Research sellers and products, pay with credit cards, and report suspected fraud.

Grandparents Scam
The Attorney General warns about the grandparent scam. Callers pretend to be a troubled grandchild and request money in this scam. Consumers should stay calm. Contact family members directly. Don’t share personal or financial information.

Drop-Shipping: What you Need to Know Before You Buy or Sell Online
The Attorney General explains that drop-shipping is legal but risky. Consumers should research products and compare prices. They should also be suspicious of social media ads and fake brands. Aspiring sellers should be cautious about “get rich quick” schemes. Sellers are also warned about lack of supply-chain control, and counterfeit or illegal goods.

Data Breaches: What to do Next
Data breaches and identity theft are increasing. These events make it important for consumers to act quickly if notified of a breach. The Attorney General urges consumers to review what data was compromised. They should also change passwords and monitor credit reports. A fraud alert or freeze on accounts could reduce the risk of long-term damage from identity theft.

AG Nessel Highlights Scam Alerts in Holiday Consumer Protection Campaign
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel continues her Holiday Consumer Protection campaign. She focuses on 5 alerts. She highlights alerts on phishing scams, puppy scams, AI fraud, scanner law pricing, and credit card monitoring. The campaign can be found on the new @MIConsumerWatch social media accounts.

Phishing Scams
The Attorney General warns that phishing scams impersonate trusted sources to steal money or personal information. Scams include smishing, romance fraud, and hijacked accounts. Consumers should watch for urgent requests, poor grammar, and suspicious links. Also, avoid clicking or replying to suspicious emails. Use spam filters and promptly report phishing and fraud.

Michigan's Scanner Law - The Shopping Reform and Modernization Act
The Attorney General reminds consumers of their rights under Michigan’s Scanner Law. Stores must display prices clearly. Consumers can receive a refund plus a bonus of up to $5 if a scanner charges more than the posted price. The alert explains exemptions, dispute options, and how to file complaints or pursue legal action.

Puppy Scams
The Attorney General warns that online puppy scams frequently target animal lovers. Scammers often demand extra fees for pets that don’t exist. Consumers are urged to research breeds, breeders, and listings. Avoid sight-unseen purchases; use credit cards; and keep records. The alert also cautions against pet store purchases and encourages adoption through local shelters.

Artificial Intelligence and Scams
The Attorney General warns that scammers are using artificial intelligence to clone the voices of loved ones. Watch out for unusual payment demands. Contact credit card companies and law enforcement if targeted.

Credit Cards - Did I Charge That?
The Attorney General warns that unauthorized credit card charges are a top consumer complaint. Consumers should review statements and avoid sharing card details by phone. Suspected fraud should be reported to the bank that issued the card.

Postcard Scam
Attorney General Dana Nessel warns veterans about fake postcards they may receive. The postcards tell veterans about extra benefits they could qualify for. Scammers use these postcards to steal personal information. Veterans should check offers with trusted veterans services. They should also report scams to state or federal authorities.

Website Spoofing - Scammers Disguised as Trusted Brand
The Attorney General warns consumers about website spoofing. This is when scammers use look-alike websites to steal personal information or money. Fake sites often pose as trusted brands through emails, texts, or ads. Check web address and avoid clicking on suspicious links. Also, watch for poor design or misspellings and use website safety tools.

Wise Charitable Giving
This alert asks consumers to research charities before donating. Check the charity’s registration status. Ask how funds are used. Be sure to confirm tax-deductibility and don’t be pressured into giving.

Prevent Identity Theft: Protect Your Mail and Packages from Porch Pirates
The Attorney General warns that many identity crimes involve mail and package theft. Consumers are urged to protect their mail, pause delivery when away, avoid leaving bills in mailboxes. These steps can help stop porch pirates to reduce identity theft risk.

Computer Ransomware - What Is It?
Ransomware is a virus that locks your files until you pay money—but paying won’t guarantee access.  This virus is spread through fake links, emails, or pop-ups. Protect yourself by updating your software, avoiding unknown links, and using secure networks. Report attacks to law enforcement or federal agencies.

Travel Tips
The Attorney General warns travelers to watch for common travel scams. The alert advises consumers to research agents and websites and pay by credit card. It also urges travelers to report suspected scams.

Your feedback is always welcome, and we appreciate your engagement as we work to serve and protect the people of Michigan.