credit: SeeMonterey.com
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is urging consumers to be vigilant against phishing, smishing, and credit card fraud during the Detroit Auto Show, which runs through January 25 at Huntington Place in Detroit.
Scammers often target large events like the auto show, using tactics such as fake emails, text messages, and ATM skimming to steal personal and financial information, Nessel said.
“The Detroit Auto Show gives scammers an opportunity to steal your hard-earned money,” Nessel said. “By knowing the tactics fraudsters use to steal personal information, you can better protect yourself from these scams.”
Phishing and smishing warnings
Officials said scammers may send emails or text messages claiming to be from the auto show or the City of Detroit. These messages often contain links to fraudulent websites designed to capture login credentials, credit card numbers, or other sensitive data.
Consumers are advised to:
- Avoid downloading attachments in suspicious messages, as they may contain malware.
- Do not click links from unknown or unexpected sources.
- Never respond to suspicious messages or phone numbers provided.
- Report suspicious messages by forwarding phishing emails to the Anti-Phishing Working Group or smishing texts to SPAM (7726), then alerting the FTC.
Suspicious phone calls should also be ignored. Consumers should hang up immediately and never provide personal information, even if the caller ID appears local.
Credit card safety at ATMs
Nessel also warned attendees to be cautious of credit card skimming and shimming at ATMs. Consumers can reduce risk by:
- Using cash when possible.
- Monitoring bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges.
- Avoiding stand-alone ATMs at convenience stores, which may be less secure than bank ATMs.
- Covering the PIN pad when entering their PIN, which may help prevent criminals from accessing accounts even if card data is stolen.
Attendees who believe they have been victims of credit card fraud are encouraged to contact their local police department and then reach out to the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at 517-335-7599 or toll-free at 877-765-8388. Complaints can also be filed online.
