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Beware of scams seeking to play off federal aid package

The federal aid package to provide economic relief during the coronavirus pandemic hasn’t even gained final approval from the U.S. House — though that’s expected to come today, with President Donald Trump’s signature soon to follow — yet scams already have started aiming to take advantage of people over what they might receive under the plan.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued an urgent consumer alert Thursday warning Michiganders to be wary of bad actors who might try to coerce them into providing personal information under the guise of representing a government agency.

The Michigan Department of Attorney General has received reports that residents are getting emails from websites appearing to be official, demanding they provide PayPal, bank account or other financial information to immediately receive the proposed $1,200 federal stimulus payment.

The attorney general’s office reminds anyone who receives a text, email or phone call from someone claiming to be from the government with a check for them — do not fall for it.

These fake phishing scams will likely ask for a person’s bank account information and promise that $1,000 or more will be deposited directly into his or her bank account.

Personal information should not be given to anyone unless the provider of that information is absolutely certain of the identity of the person requesting it, the attorney general’s office advised.

The most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the federal stimulus payment and specific disbursement details will be listed only on the IRS website, https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus.

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