Scams & Fraud

February 2023

February 2023

February 2023

Winter is upon us and with temperatures plummeting in many areas, keeping the heat on is critical — a fact that criminals try to take advantage of. They impersonate utility companies, threatening to cut off service if an immediate payment isn’t made. The goal of these crooks is to create a sense of urgency so the target acts quickly to pay the alleged past-due balance.   

Winter is upon us and with temperatures plummeting in many areas, keeping the heat on is critical — a fact that criminals try to take advantage of. They impersonate utility companies, threatening to cut off service if an immediate payment isn’t made. The goal of these crooks is to create a sense of urgency so the target acts quickly to pay the alleged past-due balance.

AARP, the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older, announced today the priority issues on its 2023 Michigan Legislative Agenda. Approximately 3.9 million residents in Michigan are 50 and over, representing 39% of the state’s population.

Winter is upon us and with temperatures plummeting in many areas, keeping the heat on is critical — a fact that criminals try to take advantage of. They impersonate utility companies, threatening to cut off service if an immediate payment isn’t made.

We all want to be helpful, especially when the request comes from our boss, a friend or a community leader. This instinct is something criminals take advantage of. That’s why you should be suspicious of any urgent message that asks you to “do me a favor.”

At the start of a new year we often reflect on the previous year and make goals for the coming year. Why not make one of your goals for 2023 to “Recognize, Refuse and Report” scams?! While scams can take various forms, there are often “red flags” that are common to many scams. Recognizing red flags will help you avoid most scams. The following are some common red flags that may help you identify if a scammer is trying to steal your money or personal information:

Be aware of short, urgent text messages, emails or social media messages asking for your help purchasing gift cards.