November 13, 2026
LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) is launching a statewide television, radio and social media campaign aimed at raising awareness about cyber scams and encouraging residents to take steps to protect themselves and loved ones from online criminals.
The campaign titled “Impostors” highlights common tactics used by scammers, including impersonating family members, sending fraudulent bank alerts and creating a false sense of urgency to trick people into sharing personal information or sending money.
“Cyber crimes continue to evolve to find new ways to deceive people. Unfortunately, these crimes often target older adults,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “We encourage everyone to take a moment to stop, think and verify before responding to any message from an unknown source.”
According to the FBI's 2025 Internet Crime Complaint Center Annual Report, Michigan adults over the age of 60 are disproportionately affected by cybercrime, accounting for 31% of victims. This age group also experienced the highest financial losses of any age group.
The “Impostors” campaign encourages residents to follow three simple steps when receiving a suspicious message or request:
Stop: Take a moment before responding, clicking a link or sending money.
Think: Ask yourself whether the message or request could be a scam.
Verify: Confirm the request through a trusted method, such as contacting the individual or organization directly using a known phone number.
Cyber scams often use fear, urgency and emotional appeals to pressure people into acting before they have time to think. This campaign encourages everyone to be cautious of unexpected messages, avoid clicking suspicious links and verify the source before sharing personal or financial information.
The campaign will air on television and radio and appear on social media platforms in early November and continue through Dec. 13, 2026.
This campaign is funded by the federal Homeland Security Grant Program, in partnership with the MSP and Michigan Association of Broadcasters. Visit the “Impostors” webpage for more information.
To learn how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit MIReady and follow MSP/EMHSD on X and Facebook.
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