Consumer Alerts

Here are the top Consumer Alerts and important releases from March you should be aware of:

Website Spoofing – Scammers Disguised as Trusted Brand
Scammers spoof websites for a host of reasons. This alert explains the ways scammers pretend to be trusted brands. It also provides tips offered by the Better Business Bureau on how you can avoid falling for fake websites.

Phishing Scams
Phishing scams come in many different disguises. This alert discusses the different types of phishing. It also describes what phishing emails and text messages look like.

Toll or Ticket Scams
This alert is about a scam targeting Michigan drivers. The driver gets text or email messages saying they have unpaid tolls or tickets. The messages demand immediate payment. The tips here will teach you how not to fall for this scam.

Unauthorized Access to MiBusiness Registry Portal Accounts
This alert is about the online system businesses use to send documents. These tips will help businesses watch out for imposters and protect their data.

AG Nessel Discusses Data Centers on Pantsuits and Lawsuits
The Attorney General’s latest podcast episode is now available. She talks about AI data centers and how they can affect natural resources. Her guests share facts about the legal and environmental impact of the centers. This episode explains why it matters.

Utility Imposter Scams
Scammers posting as utility companies may threaten utility shutoff if a payment is not made. They may ask you to pay using gift cards or payment apps. Utilities never require instant or unusual payments. If you’re not sure, hang up. Verify your account using the phone number on your utility bill or the website.

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

AG Nessel Highlights Department’s Consumer Protection Resources
The Attorney General shared the ways the Department has helped Michigan consumers. The Department has a consumer protection website and a social media account. These tools help people stay informed about scams. The Department has also fought against fraud and utility rate hikes.

Sweepstakes – “You May Already Be a Winner!”
Many sweepstakes promotions are sent by companies trying to deceive consumers. The promotions are meant to give the impression that the you have already won. But you cannot win a sweepstakes you have not entered. Use your common sense and the tips listed here to spot the scams.

Artificial Intelligence and Scams
Artificial Intelligence (AI) allows computers to respond to questions like humans. This technology has a variety of legal uses. Scammers are using AI to create deep fake audio and video. They may ask for money or personal information. Watch out for unusual payment demands.

AG Nessel Shares Top Consumer Complaints of 2025
The Department received more than 12,000 consumer complaints last year. The Attorney General has listed the top ten complaint areas. Topping the list was motor vehicle complaints. Next was credit and financial concerns like those against payday lenders. Review the complete list to learn about the most common scams.

Government Imposter Scams
A new toll road scam has begun to target Michigan residents. AG Nessel reissued her government imposter scams alert. Government imposter scams involve emails, calls, or texts from people who claim they are from the government. They try to scare or coerce you into giving personal information or paying money. Learn how to safeguard your information and data.

Text Messaging Scams: Smishing
In response to the same toll road scam targeting Michigan residents, AG Nessel reissued her smishing scam alert. Smishing is a fraudulent text meant to install malware. The alert tells consumers how to protect themselves against this scam.