Safeguard Yourself Against Fraud

Fraud continues to threaten families across the country, and here in Michigan, the impact is real.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers in Michigan reported $204 million stolen by fraud in 2024, with the most common scams involving credit bureaus and information furnishers and identity theft.

Fraud in Michigan

AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource for all to help you proactively spot scams, get guidance from our fraud specialists if you’ve been targeted and feel more secure knowing that we advocate at the federal, state and local levels to protect consumers and enforce the law.

“Fraud prevention is about action,” said Paula D. Cunningham, State Director for AARP Michigan. “When AARP shows up in communities with trusted tools and local events, we’re helping neighbors protect themselves and each other.”

Fraud in Michigan (2024 Data): The Latest Numbers

• Total reported fraud losses: $204 million
• Number of reports filed: 117,326
• Top reported scams: Credit bureaus and information furnishers, identity theft and imposter scams

This data underscores why fraud is a priority issue that affects everyone.

A recent episode of AARP Michigan’s Real Possibilities TV show emphasizes this as well. Dan Lohrmann, fraud expert and Field Chief Information Security Officer at Presidio, shares practical fraud-prevention guidance to help viewers recognize common scam tactics and protect their personal and financial information. Watch the video here.

Fraud Prevention Advocacy

AARP Michigan is also advocating for policy solutions to protect consumers from crypto kiosk fraud, one of the fastest-growing scam tactics in the country.

Criminals increasingly direct victims to cryptocurrency kiosks (sometimes called Bitcoin ATMs), where money can be transferred quickly and is often difficult to recover.

AARP is addressing this issue from multiple angles:

• Empowering people with information about crypto kiosk scams and what to do if they are targeted
• Urging policymakers to establish practical safeguards for consumers
• Supporting fraud victims through the AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline and fraud victim support program

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to target unsuspecting consumers. While adults 50-plus are frequently targeted, fraud affects every generation.

Join the fight against fraud in Michigan. Become an AARP Digital Fraud Fighter and help your friends and family spot and avoid scams.

More Resources

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline: Get guidance from trained fraud specialists: Call 877-908-3360 Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.– 8:00 p.m. ET.

Subscribe to Watchdog Alerts: Stay on top of the latest scams by subscribing to AARP's free bi-weekly newsletter by email and text.

AARP Scam-Tracking Map: See scams occurring near you or report one if you’ve been targeted.

E-Learning — Effective Ways to Protect Yourself From Scams: This free course explains how to spot warning signs, disengage from scammers and take action if you're a target.