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Published on January 19, 2025
Michigan AG Warns of Scam Threats at Detroit Auto Show, Urges Consumer VigilanceSource: Google Street View

As the Detroit Auto Show revs up at Huntington Place, a cautionary message arrives from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel urging vigilance against scams that frequently occur at high-traffic events. Nessel highlighted the importance of recognizing phishing and skimming tactics that could leave attendees vulnerable to theft of their personal and financial information. "No one is immune from common scams like phishing and skimming, and events like the Detroit Auto Show give scammers another opportunity to steal your hard-earned money," Nessel noted in a recent public announcement.

With the allure of shiny new vehicles on display, it can be easy to overlook the less visible risks looming in deceptive communications. Nessel warns that emails and texts that originate from reputable sources, such as the Detroit Auto Show or the City of Detroit, might lead individuals to fraudulent websites designed to harvest sensitive details like login credentials or credit card information. Suppose consumers encounter a suspicious email or text. In that case, they should refrain from downloading attachments, clicking links, or replying to the sender, and report the incident to proper authorities, such as the Anti-Phishing Working Group or the FTC, through forwarding smishing texts to SPAM (7726).

Phone calls also pose a threat, with scammers masking their true locations behind seemingly local area codes. In these circumstances, the Attorney General advises, hanging up without responding to any requests for personal information. Nessel assures that legitimate businesses do not operate by soliciting sensitive data over the phone.

Another common pitfall at events like auto shows comes from the misuse of compromised ATMs by skimming devices capable of stealing credit card data. To evade such traps, consumers are advised to use cash when feasible, stay vigilant by reviewing their bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions, and avoid less secure standalone ATMs often found in locations outside banks. When forced to use an ATM, shielding the PIN pad can obstruct thieving eyes, though it won't stop data collection at compromised terminals—it may at least prevent emptied accounts in the absence of a PIN.

The Detroit Auto Show, a hotspot for car enthusiasts and potential scammers alike, will continue through January 20. Should individuals fall prey to credit card fraud, they are encouraged to report to their local police and also to the Department of Attorney General's Consumer Protection Team. The team can be reached via mail, phone, and fax, or an online complaint form which is available on the Michigan Attorney General's website.