Consumer Alerts

Here are the top Consumer Alerts and relevant news releases from April that you should be aware of:

Don’t Fall Victim to Gift Card Scams
Gift cards are widely used by scammers to steal from consumers. When anyone asks for payment using a gift card, consider it a red flag. These transactions cannot be reversed. Many different scams ask for gift card payments. Learn what you can do if you think you’ve been scammed.

Artificial Intelligence and Scams
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can convince you it’s your loved on the phone asking for help rather than a scammer using AI. Scammers can use AI to create “deepfake” audio. This audio is used to clone voices. Scammers can also spoof a loved one’s phone number. Protect yourself from becoming an AI scam victim.

AG Nessel Unpacks Crony Capitalism on Latest Episode of Pantsuits and Lawsuits
Attorney General Nessel’s latest podcast episode is out. She looks at crony capitalism. How does it affect economic policy? She discusses supply chain uncertainty, AI, and scientific brain drain with Dr. Justin Wolfers of U of M. They ask what happens to democracy when corporations fear speaking out about policies that hurt their bottom line.

Bitcoin ATMs – Frequent Source of Scams and Money Laundering
Bitcoin ATMs are sometimes used by criminals to launder money gained from fraud. Money sent through these transactions are nearly impossible to recover. Find out how bitcoin ATM scams work. Why is using them so risky? This alert provides tips on how you can avoid being a victim of this scam.

Building and Remodeling Advice for Homeowners
This alert advises homeowners to research contractors before signing an agreement or making any payments. This is especially important after a fire or natural disaster.

Beware of Buying a Flood-Damaged Vehicle
Flood damage is not always obvious on a vehicle. But it can affect vital parts. Learn how to avoid buying a flood-damaged vehicle. This alert explains how you can protect yourself.

Michigan’s Towing Laws – What You Need to Know
Find out how to recover your vehicle after it is towed. You could lose your vehicle if you don’t claim it. This alert also explains how to challenge unreasonable towing fees.

After the Disaster Scams
After a disaster, imposters may pose as officials pushing quick deals on home repairs. This alert warns residents to stay alert. Check licenses and IDs. Don’t rush or pay in cash. Learn the warning signs and report scams to the Attorney General.

Tax Scams Targeting Small and Midsized Businesses
This alert teaches consumers about the scams used to defraud small businesses. It also teaches small business owners how to protect their companies from tax scams.

Recognize a Scam
Scammers continue to come up with new and more effective ways to trick you. They want you to hand over money or personal information. Most scams have common characteristics. By equipping yourself with the tools to recognize a scam, you can be alert to their key features and avoid becoming a victim.

AG Nessel Warns of Investment Scams on Meta Platforms
This press release alerts residents about investment schemes found on social media sites. They involve “pump and dump” scams and fake cryptocurrency pitches. Learn how social media has become a breeding ground for fake investment schemes. The release also informs readers on how to protect themselves.

Tax-Related ID Theft
You don’t need to be rich to be a target for tax-related identity theft. The AG’s alert describes what tax identity theft is. Learn the clues that could signal your identity has been stolen. Get tips on what to do if you are a victim of tax ID fraud.