Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued a renewed warning to consumers about an increase in scams involving impersonations of celebrities and public figures. These scams are targeting individuals by posing as well-known personalities, including celebrities like Snoop Dogg, Garth Brooks, Kid Rock, and military leaders.
Nessel cautioned that people might be led to believe they are in relationships with these famous individuals. "While it may be disappointing to hear, you are probably not in a secret, long-distance relationship with Garth Brooks," she stated. She further advised against sending money if approached by someone claiming to be a celebrity or public official asking for funds.
The reported scams take various forms:
- Romance scams: Victims are misled into thinking they have an online relationship with a celebrity.
- Cryptocurrency or “pig butchering” scams: Fake investment opportunities falsely endorsed by famous personalities.
- Merchandise scams: Consumers are tricked into buying fake exclusive merchandise.
Nessel's office provides alerts on these common social media and dating platform scams. Such frauds often exploit individuals seeking romantic partners online by pretending to be celebrities or those unable to meet in person due to overseas commitments.
In collaboration with Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, Nessel highlighted the dangers of “pig butchering” scams targeting seniors through the Pantsuits and Lawsuits podcast. Alex Juarez and Mark Fetterhoff from AARP joined them to discuss protective measures against such frauds. The AARP’s ElderWatch program offers counseling for scam victims at 800-222-4444 or via email.
To avoid falling victim to romance and pig butchering schemes:
- Refrain from opening bank accounts or reshipping goods for strangers.
- Avoid sending money or personal information online.
- Communicate only through verified apps without sharing personal contact details.
- Consult trusted individuals before engaging with suspicious online contacts.
Scammers also use AI technology for deepfake audio and video impersonations of known figures. They can replicate voices using publicly available audio data and make urgent demands for money under false pretenses.
Precautions include:
- Distrusting caller ID as numbers can be spoofed.
- Being wary of unusual payment requests like cryptocurrency or gift cards.
Common scam indicators involve high-pressure tactics, fear-based strategies, enticing offers, demands for sensitive information, or unconventional payment methods.
Consumers can report suspected scams by contacting the Consumer Protection Team at P.O. Box 30213 Lansing, MI 48909; phone: 517-335-7599; fax: 517-241-3771; toll-free: 877-765-8388; or through an online complaint form.