Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued a warning to residents about a new impersonation scam involving criminals posing as SSA OIG agents and demanding in-person meetings to exchange cash. Nessel emphasized the importance of staying informed and reporting any suspicious activity to protect against such scams. She praised the vigilance of the SSA OIG in helping to safeguard consumers and assured Michigan residents that the Consumer Protection Team is prepared to assist anyone targeted by these imposters.

Nessel stated, “Staying informed and reporting any suspicious activity is the best way consumers can protect themselves from these harmful scams. I commend SSA OIG for their vigilance in helping protect consumers, and our Consumer Protection Team is ready to assist any Michigan residents targeted by these imposters.”

Consumers who suspect they have fallen victim to this scam are advised to file a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center and report the scam to SSA OIG.

The Attorney General’s alert provides guidance for protecting against government imposter scams, including blocking communication, refraining from clicking on links or attachments, reporting spam messages, and deleting suspicious texts or emails. Additionally, the alert reminds consumers that government agencies will not promise increased benefits in exchange for payment, threaten arrest unless immediate funds are sent, or demand payment via unconventional methods such as gift cards, wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, cryptocurrency, or cash sent by mail.

Michigan residents are encouraged to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team by contacting:

Consumer Protection Team

P.O. Box 30213

Lansing, MI 48909

517-335-7599

Fax: 517-241-3771

Toll-free: 877-765-8388

Online complaint form