Michigan AG warns of holiday phishing scams
Consumers are urged to be cautious and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments in suspicious messages. Attachments may include malware like viruses, worms, or spyware.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is warning residents about phishing scams aiming to steal personal and financial information during the holiday season, particularly those related to package deliveries.
Scammers are using tactics like phishing and smishing, posing as legitimate companies like USPS or Amazon. These scams often involve text or email messages containing links to fake websites designed to steal login credentials, credit card details, or other sensitive information.
“The increase in online shopping and home deliveries has provided opportunities for criminals to masquerade as delivery companies,” said Nessel.
One common scam involves a text message alerting the victim about a delayed package, requiring a purchase for updates.
Consumers are urged to be cautious and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments in suspicious messages. Attachments may include malware like viruses, worms, or spyware. They should also not reply to the sender and report any suspected phishing attempts to the Anti-Phishing Working Group and the FTC. Consumers should forward smishing texts to SPAM (7726) and report the attack to the FTC.
If you receive a suspicious phone call claiming to be from a delivery company, hang up immediately. Be cautious; area codes can be misleading. A local area code on caller ID does not guarantee a local caller. Legitimate companies will never request personal information over the phone.
Victims of such scams are advised to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team.
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