UPPER PENINSULA — The Michigan State Police Eighth District is warning residents about holiday scams that target all age groups, especially older adults.
Scammers often create a sense of urgency to trick individuals into sending money or providing personal information. During the holidays, they may pose as shipping companies, sending fake notifications to gather sensitive data.
“Protecting your personal information and recognizing common scam methods can help prevent you and your loved ones from being scammed,” said Lt. Ben Eckola, MSP Eighth District Public Information Officer.
Common signs of a scam include urgent requests for money or personal information, requests for payment via gift cards, money orders, or wire transfers, misspelled or suspicious website addresses, poor grammar, and claims of unexpected prizes or winnings.
To protect yourself, use secure payment methods, keep account and credit card information private, avoid entering sensitive information on public devices, and keep your devices and security software updated. When shopping online, use trusted retailers and prefer credit cards over debit cards.
If you receive a suspicious email or text, do not reply or cooperate with the sender. Contact someone you trust, your local bank, or law enforcement if you are unsure about a potential scam.
As the holiday season approaches, staying vigilant against scams can help protect personal information and prevent financial loss. If something seems too good to be true, it is likely a scam.