The scam targets workers and businesses through fraudulent letters falsely claiming to be from the State of Michigan.
07/03/2023 11:20 A.M.
1.5 minute read
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a warning last week to residents regarding a new debt collection scam.
The scam involves sending fraudulent letters falsely claiming to be from the State of Michigan that demand immediate payment of the alleged debt through a toll-free number. Recipients are threatened with various consequences, such as bank account seizures, wage garnishment, asset seizures, and property confiscation if the debts are not settled promptly. To make the scam appear legitimate and increase the likelihood of payment, the letters contain personal information obtained from internet records.
The fraudulent letters target workers and businesses and aim to collect outstanding debts supposedly owed to the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) or the Michigan Department of Treasury, the state’s debt collection agency.
Nessel emphasizes that these letters are not legitimate and do not originate from the State of Michigan, UIA, or the Michigan Department of Treasury. Genuine letters from the Treasury Department will be printed on official letterhead and provide options for debt payment, along with outlining taxpayer rights. Similarly, UIA letters will include information on protesting and appealing payment determinations, and both will include the names of departmental leaders.
The intention behind the scam is not only to fraudulently obtain payments but to also gather personal information that could be used for identity theft. Nessel encourages anyone who believes they have been scammed to contact the consumer protection team in her office, as they are dedicated to holding accountable those who engage in fraudulent activities.
Residents with questions regarding their state debts should contact the Treasury Collections Service Center at (517) 636-5265.
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