LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Scammers might try to make the most of the federal authorities shutdown to hurt these most instantly impacted, in keeping with Michigan Lawyer Basic Dana Nessel.
Nessel says the shutdown might result in these counting on federal advantages resembling Social Safety, Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP to really feel anxious concerning the standing of stated advantages. This, she says, might result in unhealthy actors to pose as authorities officers in calls, texts, or emails.
Whereas Nessel says the Division of Lawyer Basic has but to obtain any experiences of scams of this nature, she encourages Michiganders to stay vigilant.
“I do know a authorities shutdown may cause uneasiness and uncertainty for a lot of households,” Nessel stated. “Scammers take advantage of those fears to try to steal money and personal information. The best defense is to stay calm and verify details directly with the government agency.”
Nessel says federal advantages will proceed through the shutdown, however there could also be some delays in providers resembling utility processing.
If you happen to obtain fraudulent messages, Nessel says they usually comprise hyperlinks or attachments — and you shouldn’t click on them or obtain them, as they could comprise viruses. When scammers attempt to contact you, Nessel says you need to block them and report them as spam.
Authorities companies is not going to request private data or demand cost through e-mail, telephone name, or textual content. The federal government additionally doesn’t take cost by pay as you go present card, wire switch, cryptocurrency, or different cost functions. Quite, they’ll talk with you by mail and provide cost choices that means.
To report a rip-off, file a grievance, or discover extra data, you possibly can contact the Division of Lawyer Basic at:
Shopper Safety TeamP.O. Field 30213Lansing, MI 48909517-335-7599Fax: 517-241-3771Toll-free: 877-765-8388
You too can file a grievance on-line at this hyperlink.
