With scam calls and texts reaching alarming levels across Michigan, the FBI has issued a strong warning to residents: block suspicious numbers and stay vigilant against evolving phone-based fraud schemes. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Surge in Scam Calls: What’s Happening?
Michigan has experienced a significant uptick in scam calls, with criminals employing ever-more sophisticated tactics to deceive residents. These range from government impersonation and charity scams to fake car warranty and unpaid ticket schemes.
The FBI and state officials report that scammers are using both traditional phone calls and advanced technology—including AI-generated voices and spoofed local numbers—to trick people into handing over money or sensitive information.
High-Risk Area Codes to Block
The FBI specifically advises Michigan residents to be wary of calls from the following area codes, which are frequently used in scam operations:
- 268
- 284
- 473
- 649
- 876
These area codes are often associated with international scams, but criminals also use U.S.-based numbers and “neighbor spoofing” (making it look like a local call) to increase the chances you’ll pick up.
How the Scams Work
Scammers may:
- Impersonate government officials, including claiming to be from the FBI or IRS, and threaten arrest or legal action unless immediate payment is made.
- Use AI-generated voices or text messages to appear more convincing and target both the general public and government officials.
- Send links via text (smishing) or ask you to move to another messaging platform, aiming to steal your personal information or access your accounts.
FBI’s Key Warnings and Best Practices
The FBI stresses that:
- Federal agencies never call or text private citizens to demand payment or threaten arrest.
- You should never provide personal information, wire money, or buy gift cards for someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up immediately and report it to authorities.
Best practices to avoid falling victim:
- Block suspicious numbers, especially those from high-risk area codes.
- Don’t trust caller ID—scammers can spoof numbers to appear local or official.
- Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. If you do, do not engage or provide any information.
- Use call-blocking features or apps provided by your phone or service provider.
- Register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry, though scammers may still call.
- Never click on links in texts or emails from unknown sources.
What to Do If You’re Targeted
If you receive a scam call or message:
- Do not respond. Delete the message or hang up immediately.
- Report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or your local law enforcement.
- If you’ve already provided information or money, act quickly by contacting your bank and reporting the scam to authorities.
Final Thoughts
Scam calls are a persistent threat, but by staying informed, blocking suspicious numbers, and following the FBI’s guidance, Michigan residents can reduce their risk and help authorities track and combat these schemes. Remaining skeptical of unsolicited calls and messages is your best defense.
Stay safe, stay alert, and don’t hesitate to report suspicious activity—it could save you and others from falling victim to these ever-evolving scams.
Sources:-
[1] https://wbxxfm.com/fbi-warns-michigan-residents-block-these-numbers/
[2] https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/detroit/news/press-releases/fbi-detroit-warns-public-to-beware-of-government-impersonation-scams
[3] https://www.michigan.gov/consumerprotection/robocalls/block-unwanted-calls
[4] https://www.yahoo.com/news/fbi-warns-cell-phone-scam-001603563.html
[5] https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/detroit/news/press-releases/government-impersonators-and-romance-scammers-targeting-western-michigan-residents
[6] https://975now.com/fbi-scam-alert-michigan/
[7] https://www.michigan.gov/consumerprotection/protect-yourself/consumer-alerts/id-theft-telemarketing/telemarketing-fraud
[8] https://wkfr.com/feds-warn-michigan-phone-scams/
[9] https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-michigan-and-ohio-warn-scammers-impersonating-special-agents
[10] https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-block-unwanted-calls
[11] https://witl.com/ixp/691/p/ai-scams-michigan/
[12] https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/a-warning-to-michiganders-about-fake-federal-agents
[13] https://www.michigan.gov/reinventretirement/protection/recognizing-scams/national-and-local-scams
[14] https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2024/12/12/attorney-general-nessel-sends-warnings-to-voip-service-providers-that-have-allowed-robocalls