Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced on Apr. 10 that residents should be alert to the common features of scams as part of Financial Literacy Month and in advance of Money Smart Week. Nessel said that understanding how to recognize a scam is one of the best ways for consumers to protect themselves from fraud.
The reminder comes as scammers continue to develop new methods for deceiving people out of money or personal information. “Scammers are creative, coming up with new and more effective ways to trick you into handing over your hard-earned money or personal information,” Nessel said. “Arming yourself with knowledge about their current tactics is the best way to make sure you don’t get scammed.”
Nessel listed several warning signs that may indicate a scam, including unsolicited urgent requests, pressure to act immediately, vague details about the caller’s identity or purpose, instructions to keep communications secret, demands for unusual payment methods such as gift cards or wire transfers, and threats if demands are not met. Residents are also warned against providing personal or financial information in response to unexpected requests and urged not to click links in suspicious messages.
To help prevent victimization, Nessel advised blocking unwanted calls and texts, resisting pressure for immediate action, contacting businesses through trusted channels rather than those provided by potential scammers, and consulting with someone trustworthy before responding further. The Department will reissue alerts throughout Money Smart Week via its Michigan Consumer Protection (@MIConsumerWatch) social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.
The Michigan Department of Attorney General exercises authority throughout Michigan to safeguard residents according to the official website. The department advances social efforts through actions against human trafficking and support for vulnerable populations according to the official website. It also focuses on serving Michigan residents through initiatives in public service and protection according to the official website.
Dana Nessel has served as Michigan’s 54th attorney general according to the official website. The department has influenced policy by drafting legislation such as the Clean Slate law in 2019 for expungement opportunities according to the official website.
Residents seeking more information or wishing to file a complaint can contact the Consumer Protection Team at P.O. Box 30213 Lansing MI 48909; phone numbers include 517-335-7599 or toll-free at 877-765-8388.