Michigan residents should be on the look-out for online scams related to the coronavirus. None have been reported in Michigan yet but state Attorney General Dana Nessel and the Department of Health and Human Services hope a preemptive warning will blunt the impact of any coronavirus scams.
The announcement in Lansing follows a warning by the Federal Trade Commission.
Attorney General's Office Press Secretary Ryan Jarvi says the scams feed off fear by offering prevention tips or cures for the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. He says the fraud comes in many forms.
“Some of the things that we have heard about are websites selling fake products, fabricated emails, texts and social media posts that are used to steal money and personal information from people,” Jarvi says.
Jarvi says scams spread phony information about coronavirus outbreaks in nearby neighborhoods. Despite claims online, no cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Michigan so far.
The FTC says people should not click on links from unfamiliar sources, avoid online offers for vaccines (which don't exist yet), and be wary of emails claiming to be from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nessel's office says anyone who thinks they have been contacted by scammers about the outbreak should report it online or by calling toll-free (877) 765-8388.
You can stay in touch with WMUK news on Facebook, Twitter,and by signing up for our eNewsletter.