This Major Scam Is Targeting Michigan Residents During The Government Shutdown

It doesn't matter if you're a democrat or republican, anyone can fall victim to a scam if you're not careful.

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The BBB is warning Michigan residents about a new scam involving the current government shutdown, which has been in effect since October 1, 2025, due to Congress's failure to pass funding legislation for 2026.

BBB Scam Alert: Fake Relief Check Callers

In this new phishing phone scam the BBB says a caller claims you have an unclaimed “relief check” waiting.

In order to claim your check, you have to visit a website to collect it.

Read More: 25 Things Michigan Is Known And Famous For

While the message sounds official, it is a trick to steal your personal and financial information.

Scammers have been going hard.

In the past two months, there have been over 800 reports to the BBB Scam Tracker about this scheme.

Tips To Avoid This Phishing Scam

The BBB shared some things you should keep in mind so you don't fall victim to this scam.

Hang up and don't engage: Government agencies will not call and tell you to visit a random website to claim money.

Verify with official sources and avoid unfamiliar websites: If you receive a call about unclaimed money, contact the government agency directly using contact information from its official website. Do not click on links or visit sites given by the caller.

Never share personal or financial information with strangers: Do not give out Social Security numbers, banking information, ID numbers, or addresses.

Check the web address closely: Scammers often create sites that look real but are slightly different from the official one.

Watch for urgent language: Phrases like “act now” or “before it’s returned” are red flags.

Call your bank if you shared payment details: They can help you freeze accounts and look for suspicious activity.

Report scams: File a report with BBB Scam Tracker, the FTC, and local law enforcement.

Keep a record: Save any texts, emails, or call details to share with investigators and your bank.

You can stay up to date with this scam and other one's that are targeting people in West Michigan on the BBB's website.