Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued a warning about possible government imposter scams during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Nessel's office noted that although there have not yet been reports of such scams related to the shutdown, these schemes often involve individuals pretending to be officials from agencies like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, or SNAP in order to steal personal information or demand money.

The alert comes as many residents may be anxious about their federal benefits. Fraudulent messages linked to these scams may include links or attachments that can infect devices with viruses and allow scammers access to sensitive data. Attorney General Nessel advised consumers not to click on any suspicious links or download attachments from unexpected sources.

"I know a government shutdown can cause uneasiness and uncertainty for many families,” Nessel said. “Scammers take advantage of those fears to try to steal money and personal information. The best defense is to stay calm and verify details directly with the government agency.”

Nessel clarified that Social Security and other federal benefits will continue throughout the shutdown, but some delays in service, such as application processing, are possible.

To protect themselves, consumers are encouraged by Nessel’s office to block suspicious texts, emails, or calls; avoid clicking on unknown links; report spam; and delete fraudulent messages from their devices.

The Attorney General also reminded residents that legitimate government agencies do not request personal information via email, phone call, or text message. They communicate by mail regarding payment options and never demand payment through email or over the phone using prepaid gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps.

Consumers who believe they have been targeted by an imposter scam are encouraged to contact the Michigan Attorney General's Consumer Protection Team at 877-765-8388 or submit an online complaint form for assistance.