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Attorney General Nessel Warns of Potential Government Imposter Scams Amid Federal Government Shutdown
October 01, 2025
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing her consumer alert on government imposter scams that could occur during the federal government shutdown. With residents concerned about the status of their federal benefits, bad actors may take advantage of this anxiety by posing as government officials in fraudulent calls, texts, or emails. While the Department of Attorney General has not yet received reports of shutdown-related scams, they can involve false claims about Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, or SNAP benefits, with fraudsters attempting to steal personal information or demand money.
Fraudulent messages often contain links or attachments. Attorney General Nessel urges consumers to not click these links or download attachments, as they may contain viruses that infect devices and allow scammers to access sensitive information.
"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.”
Social Security and other federal benefits will continue during the federal government shutdown. However, residents may see some delays in services, including processing applications.
Attorney General Nessel is advising consumers who have received communications from imposters to protect themselves from these scams by:
- Blocking the text, email, or call;
- Not clicking links or opening attachments;
- Reporting the spam; and
- Deleting the text or email from their device.
Attorney General Nessel is also reminding consumers that government agencies:
- Will not request personal information through email, over the phone, or text;
- Will mail residents a notice and offer payment options; they will never demand money through email, over the phone, or by text; and
- Will not ask for or take payment by prepaid gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or a pay app.
To report a scam, file a complaint, or get additional information, please contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Team at:
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
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