Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Michigan Attorney General Warns Residents of Rising Celebrity Scams
Lansing, MI – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing consumer alerts following a rise in scams impersonating notable figures, including celebrities such as Snoop Dogg, Garth Brooks, and military leaders. These schemes often intend to deceive individuals into handing over their money.
“Many people wishful think they’re involved in long-distance relationships with celebrities. If someone claiming to be Garth Brooks asks you for money, it’s almost certainly a scam,” said Nessel.
Common schemes reported include romance scams, where victims believe they are in online relationships with well-known figures, which leads to requests for money. Cryptocurrency scams, known as “pig butchering,” falsely present investment opportunities purportedly backed by celebrities, while merchandise scams involve fake offers for exclusive items.
The risks associated with these scams extend into the realms of artificial intelligence, where fraudsters utilize deepfake technology to clone voices from publicly available audio. These scammers often call victims impersonating influencers in distress, urgently requesting financial support.
To assist consumers, Nessel emphasizes several protective measures:
- Avoid opening bank accounts or reshipping products for strangers.
- Never send money via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency to individuals met online.
- Only communicate through verified platforms, avoiding personal contact for safety.
- Consult a trusted individual before responding to suspicious online approaches.
Moreover, common warning signs of scams include high-pressure tactics, unusual payment requests, and demands for sensitive information.
For further information or to file a complaint, contact the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at 517-335-7599 or online.
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