Help Me Hank: Here’s how scammers are targeting UIA members in Michigan
It’s a new email scam, and millions in Michigan are being targeted. If you’ve collected unemployment, you may receive an email that appears to be from UIA asking for personal information. However, if you look closely, you may notice misspellings.
3 ways to shop smarter online this holiday season
Traditionally, this is the busiest online shopping day of the year with all kinds of deals to be had. With more business than ever online, how do you know if you are using a reputable website? We spoke with the experts at the Better Business Bureau to get their advice.
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Red flags to look for amid tax scam season
According to the Better Business Bureau, tax scams are still a problem this year. If you haven’t filed your taxes yet this season, don’t put it off any longer! The IRS discovers cases of identity theft because personal information is stolen and a fake claim for a refund is filed. “The IRS is not going to contact you and give you those high pressure tactics,” Blankenship said. “There are unfortunately people out there that they’re banking on the fact that you’re not going to look into them any further, especially if they look professional,” Blankenship said.
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Experts warn of scams involving prepaid gift cards
The caller said all he had to do was buy $480 in eBay gift cards. Prepaid gift cards are being requested in several different types of scams, including government employee impersonation scams, secret shopper scams and puppy scams. The Better Business Bureau scam tracker showed that Americans lost nearly $3 million involving payments with prepaid gift cards in 2020. “Whenever you purchase a prepaid gift card, unfortunately it’s just like cash, you can’t get that money back,” Blankenship said. Click here for more information on prepaid gift card scams.
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Cash app scams: How to protect yourself
The BBB is warning people should only the P2P apps to send money to people they know. And always double check the profile of the person you are sending money too before actually hitting the second button. Duquesnel also recommends knowing how your bank would handle a mistake or a problem sending or receiving money through a P2P app. If you send money by mistake it is unlikely you will get the money back, and unfortunately scam artists know that as well. “We are seeing an increase in scams being perpetrated through a P2P app.
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Selling items online: How to spot scammers
January is often a month people clear clutter from their homes, making room for new holiday gifts. A popular way to unload unwanted stuff is to sell it online on sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. However, the Better Business Bureau warns that there is an overpayment scam targeting people selling their goods. In this scam, a buyer will ask for the extra money back. The Better Business Bureau recommends never shipping an item before being paid for it, be wary of offers that are too good to be true and watch out for counterfeit emails.
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A look into COVID-19 vaccine sign-up security concerns
DETROIT – With the COVID-19 vaccine starting to be distributed more widely people are rushing online to get signed up. Here is what you need to look out for when getting signed up to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. VIEW: Tracking Michigan COVID-19 vaccine dosesMore: Michigan COVID-19 vaccinations: How to find appointments, info on phasesThe FBI continues to track any suspicious activity. You may be asked to enter your name, date of birth, and address but it is not necessary to enter your social security number or any banking information. Read more: COVID-19 vaccine questions?
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What customers need to know about Loves Furniture’s bankruptcy filing
WARREN, Mich. – Customers of Loves Furniture, the company that took over many closed Art Van Furniture locations, are concerned after the company filed for bankruptcy. If you’re a customer who has paid and haven’t received furniture yet, you should call your bank or credit card company immediately. Loves Furniture put blame on the COVID pandemic and the slow down of shipments from overseas. While that may be true, the new revelations of major financial problems won’t help the situation for many. READ: Customers of Loves Furniture report lengthy delivery delaysIn the bankruptcy filing, Loves revealed it has between 100-200 creditors and owes $10 million to $50 million.
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Scam Alert: ‘Like Farming’ on Facebook
You may have seen a Facebook post that claimed a free Jayco RV would be given away to someone who shares and comments on the post -- or you’ve seen posts similar to it. RELATED: Better Business Bureau warns consumers of ‘going out of business’ online shopping scamMelanie Duguesnel, with the Better Business Bureau, said that by liking the page, you’re potentially giving your personal information away. The BBB is warning people that “Like Farming” scams are still going strong. The free RV scam is so popular that Jayco has a post pinned to the top of its Facebook page to let people know they aren’t running a giveaway. READ: More scam coverageTo prevent from falling for these scams, use your good judgement and don’t “Like” every post on your feed -- that’s what scammers are hoping you’ll do.
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Be cautious: Experts warn of potential stimulus check scams
The stimulus money would likely start making its way to you by the end of the year or early January, and scammers are already making their move for your money. “A lot of con-artists out there are going to calling, emailing, looking for your personal information. They don’t need you personal information, they don’t need your bank account numbers. “Make sure that you’re being very cautious anytime you’re receiving a text message or email as well. “Either they’re hoping to get your money, or they’re hoping that you’re going to give your personal information.”
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How to spot fake shopping sites and avoid being scammed
Online shopping scams are on the rise as thieves look to take advantage of the increase in people shopping online during the pandemic. Online shopping scams, like the one Black fell for, are on the rise as thieves take advantage of the surge of people flocking to the internet during the pandemic. To lure you onto the sites, scammers pay for ads on Facebook, Google and other websites. So far this year, the FTC has received more than 37,000 reports of online shopping fraud, amounting to $27 million in losses. You can also report the site on the Better Business Bureau and FTC websites, which could help others from being scammed.
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Scammers using excitement surrounding COVID-19 vaccine to target Michigan residents
The delivery of COVID-19 vaccines in the state of Michigan is exciting and promising news for millions, but it’s also a call for scammers to try to capitalize on the moment. Scams involving the COVID-19 vaccine have the attention of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. The first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine doses are rolling out to Michigan hospitals and clinics this week, and scammers know that. That’s now how distribution of the vaccine will work, medical officials said. Anyone who has questions about the vaccine or any suspicious contact about the distribution should contact a trusted medical professional.
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Better Business Bureau warns of COVID-19 vaccine scams
The Better Business Bureau is sounding the alarm in hopes you won’t be fooled. Read: How Henry Ford Hospital played key role in Moderna vaccine studyCon artist are offering up ways to get a vaccine by telling people they can take part in clinical trials. Watch out for red flags -- if you haven’t inquired about a clinical trial and you get a message about one, delete it. Once a COVID-19 vaccine is approved, Henry Ford says it is prepared to receive and store the vaccine -- which requires storage at extremely low temperatures. Drug companies Pfizer and Moderna have both developed promising COVID-19 vaccines that are nearing approval in the U.S.
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Better Business Bureau warns of texting scams offering money to participate in COVID study
Scam artists have found many ways during the coronavirus pandemic to try and con people out of their money or personal information. The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about a new text message claiming to offer $1,200 for participation in a local COVID study. “We have heard from consumers that there’s a text message going around that says if you participate in the study, you’ll earn $1,200,” said Melanie Duquesnel, president and CEO of eastern Michigan Better Business Bureau. The difficulty is that you cannot, through a text message, determine if they’re a reputable company.”Click here to view the Better Business Bureau Scam TrackerWhen it comes to phishing scams, beware any unsolicited communication. Never click on links or download anything from a text message or email.
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How your Facebook ‘likes’ could make you a target for scams
You may have seen a Facebook post that claimed a free Jayco RV would be given away to someone who shares and comments on the post -- or you’ve seen posts similar to it. RELATED: Better Business Bureau warns consumers of ‘going out of business’ online shopping scamMelanie Duguesnel, with the Better Business Bureau, said that by liking the page, you’re potentially giving your personal information away. The BBB is warning people that “Like Farming” scams are still going strong. The free RV scam is so popular that Jayco has a post pinned to the top of its Facebook page to let people know they aren’t running a giveaway. READ: More scam coverageTo prevent from falling for these scams, use your good judgement and don’t “Like” every post on your feed -- that’s what scammers are hoping you’ll do.
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Watch out for online shopping scams as holiday shopping season kicks into high gear
DETROIT – Holiday shopping season is kicking into high gear and because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, more people will be shopping online. Melanie Duquesnel is the president of the Better Business Bureau serving Eastern Michigan. “If a deal appears to be too good to be true, it probably is,” Duquesnel said. The scammers call and when you answer you get a recorded message claiming to be from Amazon stating there is a problem with your Amazon account. Scammers also send emails or texts, asking you to verify your personal information -- all so they can steal it.
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Better Business Bureau wants you to be wary of scammers pretending to be with the government
DETROIT – The Better Business Bureau is issuing a warning about scam artists who are taking advantage of people by targeting their cellphones. Scammers are pretending to be from the government, a police agency, or even COVID-19 contact tracers. They’re trying to get your information to sell, or your money. “They’re trying to bait you into being fearful,” Duquesnel said. Walk away.”If you have given away any personal information, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
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Scammers pretending to be from Amazon have been spoofing the Better Business Bureau’s phone number
DETROIT – Con artists are posing as Amazon employees, calling people, and claiming to need information about their account, according to the Better Business Bureau. The scammers have been spoofing the Better Business Bureau’s number while making this scam calls. READ: Better Business Bureau warns consumers of ‘going out of business’ online shopping scamHow does the scam work? Amazon will never ask you to disclose sensitive personal information or offer you a refund you don’t expect. Amazon will also never send you an unsolicited message that asks you to provide personal information.
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Better Business Bureau warns consumers of ‘going out of business’ online shopping scam
DETROIT – The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about an online shopping scam involving “going out of business” advertisements. Melanie Duquesnel, president of the Better Business Bureau serving Eastern Michigan, said the difficulty they’re finding is that clients are not getting the product but yet they’re getting charged for it. READ: Scammers use multiple methods to target victims -- Here’s what to watch out for“Just because an advertisement is on Facebook doesn’t mean that it’s a 100% trustworthy business,” Duquesnel said. With more people buying cars, RVs and boats online, the BBB says vehicle shipper and escrow scams are going up. How do you know that you’re going to get your money back?” Duquesnel said.
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Seal coating scammers targeting Metro Detroiters who are home due to coronavirus pandemic
Seal coating scams typically take place this time of year, but now thieves are going door-to-door and targeting people who are home because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Police and officials with the Better Business Bureau issued a warning about the scam in Metro Detroit. With more people staying at home during the pandemic, scammers are having more success going door-to-door, experts said. Melanie Duquesnel, of the BBB, is urging residents to be cautious if anyone shows up at the door and offers a great deal. You can watch the full Help Me Hank report in the video above.
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How to report, stop political robocalls, texts
Political robocalls and texts are getting out of control, but there is a way to get them to stop -- for now. If you feel like you’ve received a political scam call, it’s important you report it to local police and the Better Business Bureau who will track the areas being targeted. We’re also seeing robocall scam calls. If you feel like you’ve received a political scam call it’s important you report it to local police and the Better Business Bureau who will track the areas being targeted. If you’ve been the victim of a robocall scam, report it on the BBB.org/ScamTracker.
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Rental scams becoming serious problem in Metro Detroit as criminals capitalize on COVID-19 fears
Rental scams are starting to become a serious problem in Metro Detroit as high-tech criminals take advantage of fears about the coronavirus (COVID-19). Hundreds of online advertisements are promoting rental properties across the area, but officials with the Better Business Bureau said beware of potential scams. Criminals are posting fake ads and sometimes saying they can’t show anyone the properties because of the threat from COVID-19. Another red flag is if they demand cash up front or ask for payments through gift cards. You can watch Hank Winchester’s full report and hear from an expert with the BBB in the video posted above.
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Identity thieves are targeting absentee voters
DETROIT – Absentee voting is presenting an opportunity for criminals to take your personal information. Millions of voters are expecting to vote absentee in November and scammers are aware of that. The BBB is tracking one regarding fake absentee ballot information. The scammer will ask if you want to sign up to get an absentee ballot, then will start asking for personal information. If you have questions about absentee voting you should contact your local clerk’s office or visit the Secretary of State’s website.
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Stimulus uncertainty and the money conversations you should be having
DETROIT – Many people are hurting financially and with the debate raging over the next possible stimulus -- it’s a good time for many people to look at their finances. READ: Money saving resources during coronavirus pandemicMany credit card companies are waiving late fees. Some debt consolation companies are offering assistance. The details hidden in the fine print could cost you big time in the future. READ: Financial expert helps you manage your money during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisisWatch the video for the full report
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How to protect yourself from holiday gift card scams
They were trying to protect themselves from thieves when they bought this Walmart gift card. But thieves found them anyway when they swiped their brand new gift card. They said it was already used,” said Jim Lamka, gift card scam victim. We’ve seen gift card scams before, but they usually come from scammers on the phone or in emails. The Better Business Bureau says this one is the most common gift card scam hitting Metro Detroit now.
BBB: Facebook gift exchanges are pyramid schemes, illegal
If you see something on social media called a Secret Sister gift exchange the Better Business Bureau wants you to know that and other gift exchanges like it are illegal. The BBB said those gift exchanges are pyramid schemes and should be ignored and reported to Facebook. A particular post the BBB references told participants they would receive up to 36 gifts in exchange for sending one gift. Postal Inspection Services said that gift exchanges are illegal gambling, according to the BBB. The BBB wants anyone who receives a chain letter by mail, email or social media to ignore it -- especially if it involves money or gifts.
Help Me Hank: DTE, BBB issue warning about door-to-door DTE scam targeting seniors in Oakland County
OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. DTE Energy and the Better Business Bureau are working to make people aware of scammers who claim to be with DTE, but are nothing more than crooks. Police said the scammers are targeting the elderly mainly in Oakland County, but they move quickly and police want people to be aware. People have been reportedly posing as DTE employees and going door-to-door, offering to help customers cut their bill down. DTE encourages customers to call police if you believe the person at your door is a con artist posing as a utility worker, a DTE spokesperson said. Remember to ask for identification, as DTE employees and contractors carry photo ID.
BBB issues warning about gift cards being mailed to consumers
Getty ImagesDETROIT - The Better Business Bureau issued a warning this week about gift cards being mailed to consumers around the country from an online company. The BBB referred to the cards as being part of "part of a questionable marketing scheme by Mother's Lounge LLC." According to the BBB, Mother's Lounge is a company in Pleasant Grove, Utah that sends gift cards from its various online businesses. The envelopes have a card congratulating the recipient on their pregnancy and gift cards to several businesses. Visit bbb.org to see a business' BBB Business Profile and find trustworthy BBB Accredited Businesses.

Police warn of sealcoating scam targeting seniors in Michigan
DETROIT - Police and the Better Business Bureau are issuing a warning about an old scam that's making the rounds this holiday weekend. Authorities have been tracking criminals from Louisiana and Florida taking money from many seniors in Michigan as part of a sealcoating scam. Officials said scammers approach seniors while they're outside, offering to help improve the look of their driveways. One woman who fell for the scam dished out lots of money and had little work actually done to her driveway. He and his partner have been hitting homes all over the state, from Grand Rapids to Detroit, according to authorities.
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Battle over awnings, customer calls Help Me Hank
DETROIT – It's an often-reported problem to the Help Me Hank consumer unit: contractors that take your money, but don't finish the job. UPDATE: Battle with awning company continuesThompson says she paid the company $2,000 up front and expected them to install the awnings around May 3rd. Once Help Me Hank got involved there were more broken promises, leading Thompson to ask for her money back. Local 4's Hank Winchester tracked down a woman who identified herself as the manager of the company on June 20th. When things go wrongGloria Thompson of Detroit thought she had done her homework when she called the Panama Awnings Company.