A new scam is blowing up phones across Michigan, and Attorney General Dana Nessel says don’t take the bait.

Scammers are spoofing the Consumer Protection Division and flooding Michigan cell phones with fraudulent calls and texts claiming you must pay immediately, or your bank and credit card accounts will be shut down.

It Looks Legit—But It’s a Scam

These calls use caller ID spoofing to make them look legitimate, often displaying the actual number for Michigan's Consumer Protection Division or one of its associated offices.

SEE ALSO:  Michigan Toddler Dies After Being Hit by Riding Lawn Mower

But Nessel emphasizes that state agencies will never demand money or personal information over the phone. If you get one of these suspicious calls, hang up and report them to her Consumer Protection Team.

Nessel said the scammers are trying to pressure people into acting quickly by using fear tactics and impersonating trusted officials.

“This scam is alarming and designed to manipulate consumers into making hasty, costly decisions,” Nessel said. “My office does not call consumers to demand money, charge fees to resolve ‘flagged accounts,’ or negotiate credit card debt over the phone. If you think you’ve received a scam call from the Department of Attorney General, please hang up and contact us directly.”

What to Do If You Get One of These Calls

The calls may sound urgent and official, but that’s part of the con. Nessel says scammers want you to panic and pay up fast—so don’t. Anyone who receives one of these messages is urged to report it online or by calling 877-765-8388.

WFNT logo
Get our free mobile app

Is It Illegal? Answering Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Laws

Michigan has a lot of different laws - and some things that many THINK are illegal/legal that are actually the opposite. Let's take a look and provide answers to 50+ commonly asked questions about Michigan laws.

Gallery Credit: Wendy Reed

LOOK: How Many of These Classic Summer Toys Do You Remember?

If you grew up in the Wild West of the '60s, '70s, or '80s, summer toys were a lifeline because many of us were locked outside (until the street lights came on). Inside was no place for a kid! Check out these classic summer toys that kept us cool, kept us busy, and always seemed to add a dash of danger.

Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz

11 Items That Are Illegal To Throw Away In Michigan

Michigan has strict regulations to protect the environment and public health. Certain items are illegal to throw away in the state.

Gallery Credit: Jessica Poxson