OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – Officials in Oakland County are warning the community about a scam related to COVID-19 vaccine appointments. A caller has reportedly been reaching out to residents and asking questions in order to schedule a vaccine appointment and then is asking for personal and financial information. READ: FBI: Scammers are selling fake COVID-19 vaccines online“Oakland County will never ask for any financial information including credit card or social security numbers,” Leigh-Anne Stafford, a health officer for Oakland County, said. “If you are unsure if it is a scam, avoid sharing any personal information over the phone, and report it to the authorities.”AdREAD: More scam coverage

DETROIT – The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is putting out a warning to protect consumers from scammers who are preying on people’s fears during the COVID-19 pandemic. There have been reports of fake COVID-19 test kits and now there are fake vaccines being sold online. Thieves want more than just your money, they want your personal money. READ: Scammers use multiple methods to target victims -- Here’s what to watch out forWatch the video for the full report.

DETROIT – Michigan taxpayers should watch out for a new wave of COVID-19 scams as the second round of stimulus payments are delivered, according to the Internal Revenue Service. “While scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their efforts, taxpayers can still act as the first line of defense using some of these tips,” Sarah Kull, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office said. “Taking some very basic precautions could mean protection against a potentially costly scam.”The best way to avoid falling for a scam is to be aware that the IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails. THe IRS does not call people and threaten jail time or lawsuits -- it doesn’t demand tax payments via gift cards. Scams can be reported to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or reported online.

DETROIT – With so many people looking for work, scam artists are turning to posting fake job opportunities in hopes of taking advantage of people desperate for a job and money. The Better Business Bureau is urging residents to pay attention to job postings online. You can report a complaint to the Better Business Bureau here. Michigan’s attorney general outlined four specific types of COVID-19 vaccine scams circulating in the state and explained how they’re targeting residents. Gretchen Whitmer to warn Michiganders about scammers looking to capitalize on the COVID-19 vaccine excitement.

DETROIT – With the Pfizer vaccine potentially getting emergency authorization from the Food and Drug Administration on Thursday, scammers are already lined up ready and waiting. Scammers want to trick people to get their money and personal information. READ: A look at the small town in Michigan working on Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine“A big day as the first COVID-19 vaccine administered in the UK,” Melanie Duquesnel with the Better Business Bureau said. “A big day for healthcare, and a big day for scammers who are already looking to make their move.”Some people are already receiving calls and emails telling people if they want the vaccine they’re going to need to pay up. READ: What will the COVID-19 vaccine cost?

DETROIT – Thieves are targeting victims with scams ranging from the election to puppies and even using the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to rip people off. Here’s the latest information on these scams so the public can stay informed and protect themselves. READ: AG Nessel, Humane Society warn consumers of puppy scams during COVID-19 pandemicThe Federal Trade Commission has also been tracking COVID-19 scams and there have been hundreds. There have also been reports of undelivered goods, robo call scams and text and email related scams. Scammers are usually trying to get victims’ personal information, like their social security number.

DETROIT – The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is putting many people in dire financial situations. Scammers are aware of this and hope to take advantage of people online. Financial expert TOm Hakim said while there are some legitimate companies out there -- there are also scammers trying to get personal information. MORE: Scammers using fake tests, promise of COVID-19 cures to target Metro Detroiters during pandemicRemember -- just because you’re being offered a low rate doesn’t always mean it stays low for the lif eof the loan. READ: Online scammers trying to prey on people concerned about coronavirusWatch the video above for the full report.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is putting many people in dire financial situations. If you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566.